Once again serious concerns have come to light regarding the security of internet users. More than 4 million consumers worldwide have been infected with malware through browser extensions. Cybersecurity researchers say that many popular extensions, which users blindly trust, are abusing that same trust. These extensions not only access browsing data, but have also been found to engage in activities such as ad injection, click fraud, and theft of sensitive information.
Browser extensions are basically created to add user convenience—like taking screenshots, password management, VPN, notification controls, or productivity tools. But their misuse has increased rapidly in recent years. Experts are warning that once installed, many extensions ask for permissions that they don’t need at all. As a result, they can track browser history, login-related data, cookies and even banking sessions.
Cyber experts point out that many harmful extensions pass security tests despite being available in official stores. This concern is heightened because users assume that all tools available on the store are safe. At the same time, some developers initially release safe and legitimate extensions and later sell them to unknowing buyers. These new owners often add hidden malware even though the extension is already present in the browsers of millions of users.
Recent cases suggest that several extensions were injecting unwanted advertisements into users’ browsers. In some cases, data tracking users’ online purchases was being sold to third parties. Some malware extensions were even found to silently monitor user clicks and divert them to ad networks, thereby generating illegal income.
According to experts, the situation is certainly worrisome, but it is completely possible to avoid it by being cautious. Users are being advised to check the developer, rating, download count and user reviews of any extension before installing it. Apart from this, extensions that are not used for a long time or ask for suspicious permissions should be removed immediately. It is also essential to check the “Extension Manager” of the browser at regular intervals.
Security experts also say that it is very important to update the browser and security software from time to time. Many browsers now also offer the option to run extensions with limited permissions, using which the risk can be reduced to a great extent.
Digital life is growing rapidly, but with it the risks are also increasing. In such a situation, the biggest challenge facing internet users is to strike a balance between convenience and security. The experts have clear advice: use fewer extensions, and only those that are reliable and necessary.
Also read:
Do not make this mistake while charging, otherwise your children may also get electrocuted.
Comments are closed.