The technical security of your connection to Qwant is based on proven web standards. Here is what this means in practice.
Encrypted HTTPS Connection
All Qwant pages are served over HTTPS, the web's encrypted connection protocol. Specifically:
- Your search queries cannot be read in plain text by your Internet service provider or a third party intercepting your traffic.
- The responses Qwant sends back to you are also encrypted.
- The certificate of qwant.com is verified by your browser and guarantees that you are indeed on the real Qwant site.
If your browser displays a certificate warning when arriving at qwant.com, do not proceed and report the issue to us: this is probably a sign of an attack or an interfering proxy.
Security ≠ Privacy
Technical security (encryption, integrity) and privacy (who collects what) are two different things:
- Security: your connection is protected against eavesdropping by a third party in transit.
- Privacy: who sees your data, how it is used.
All major search engines use HTTPS. The use of HTTPS does not say anything about their data collection policies. For Qwant’s privacy, see Qwant and Your Privacy.
Security of Search Results
Qwant automatically flags clearly dangerous sites in its results (phishing sites, sites containing known malware). These flags rely on public reputation and threat databases.
That said, no automatic flagging is perfect. Stay vigilant against:
- Sites asking for your credentials by impersonating a known service.
- File downloads from unknown sources.
- Promises that are too good to be true (winnings, inheritances, lottery prizes).
Security of Your Qwant Account
If you have a Qwant account:
- Use a strong and unique password (at least 12 characters, not used elsewhere).
- Prefer authentication via Apple or Google when possible: these providers offer strong protections.
- Log out when using a shared device.
In Case of a Security Incident
If you suspect unauthorized access to your account or another security incident:
- Immediately change your password.
- Contact Qwant support detailing the situation.