Why this is useful: browsers and start pages expose frequently visited sites that can leak sensitive information (shared devices, work contexts). A focused paper can evaluate threats, user needs, and design/technical mitigations and provide practical recommendations.
Alternative: Use a browser extension like Empty New Tab Page or Start.me for more control.
Edge offers a "Focused" view that removes all distractions, including Most Visited.
Result: The new tab page now shows only the Bing search bar and a background image. No "Most Visited" shortcuts. remove most visited pages
The "Most Visited" grid is a double-edged sword—it offers speed at the cost of privacy. Fortunately, modern browsers have realized that users want control over their new tab experience. Whether you choose to delete a single embarrassing shortcut or disable the feature entirely to achieve a minimalist look, taking control of your browser's new tab page is an essential step in curating your digital environment.
To remove "Most Visited" or "Frequently Visited" sections from your browser on a computer or mobile device, follow these steps: Google Chrome (Desktop)
You can either hide the shortcuts or delete specific entries from your New Tab page: Hide the Entire Section , click the Customize Chrome button (pencil icon) at the bottom right, and toggle off Show shortcuts Remove Specific Sites : Hover over a site tile on the New Tab page and click the three dots to delete that specific entry. Clear History : To wipe the list completely, go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear browsing data and select Browsing history Google Help Safari (iPhone & iPad) Via Start Page : Open Safari, tap the icon (two squares), then tap the for a new tab. Scroll to the bottom, tap , and toggle off Frequently Visited Via Settings : Go to the Settings app , scroll down to , and toggle off Frequently Visited Sites under the General section. Safari (Mac) Open a new window or tab in Safari. Settings icon Why this is useful: browsers and start pages
(three sliders) in the bottom-right corner of the start page. Uncheck the box for Frequently Visited specific websites
from ever appearing in these lists while keeping the feature on?
Customize your New Tab page in Chrome - Computer - Google Help Result: The new tab page now shows only
To help you frame this piece, here’s a structured outline and key angles you could explore in your feature.
If you do not want to change your settings permanently but need a quick fix for privacy, the simplest solution is to use Incognito Mode (Chrome), Private Browsing (Firefox/Safari), or InPrivate (Edge).
Browsers specifically designed these modes so that history is not recorded. Consequently, if you visit a site in Incognito Mode, it will never appear on your "Most Visited" grid in your standard window. This is the best strategy for one-off visits to sites you don't want stored.
Apple’s Safari is notoriously stubborn about customization. It assumes you want the Apple way. Removing "Most Visited" (called "Frequently Visited") is possible, but Apple hides the switch.