It is very likely that you have an extension installed in the browser. There are many kinds of plugins you can add to Chrome or Firefox, and on paper they can be useful. They allow you to better organize tabs, manage downloads, or even enhance security. Now, is there dangers of using extensions in the browser? The truth is that yes. It is a type of software that can be used to steal your passwords, data or sneak in viruses. We are going to talk about it and we will give you some tips to protect yourself.
We can say that one browser extension it’s like a little program that you’re going to install in Chrome or Firefox. A small application that will have a specific function. Maybe it’s designed to help you better organize your browser, for example. The problem is that not all of them are going to be reliable.
But how could we have a malicious extension? You most likely downloaded it from somewhere. unofficial site. Hackers can upload modified software to the Internet, so you’ll be tricked into thinking it’s an official program. From there, all the problems that we are going to mention begin.
Risks of using extensions
One of the clear risks is that that browser plug-in may be stealing your data. They could have designed that software to gather information of your browsing, which sites you visit, how you have configured the program or even see the passwords you enter to log in to social networks, email, etc.
Also, they could use the extension to show you misleading advertising constantly. It is what is known as adware. They can be bars that appear at the top of Chrome or Firefox, windows that are constantly displayed when browsing, messages that appear when you enter a website… This can be a real danger, since it is not only annoying advertising, but sometimes it can be a lure for you to click and download a virus.
And yes, the theme of download malware is another risk of using extensions. It could perfectly well be the entry route for a Trojan horse, virus and any other threat. They can use add-ons of this type only for the purpose of downloading a file and taking control of your computer without you noticing.
They can even get to hijack the browser. They will have control over which home page you have, which browser to use as default, redirect you to other websites without permission or even install additional extensions. With these extensions, they could profit if, for example, they are cryptocurrency miners. That will slow down your browser, of course.
How to avoid problems
What can you do to avoid all these problems? Something very important is that whenever you are going to install an extension, you do it from official sites. For example, you can use the Chrome Store to install Google browser plugins. It does not mean that they are 100% reliable, since there will always be a minimum risk, but at least you make sure that they have passed a filter.
It is also convenient that check the plugins that you have already installed. Perhaps one has changed its name, functions or is obsolete. You don’t want to have outdated extensions, as that can be the gateway for hackers. They could take advantage of some vulnerability to take control of your browser.
Besides, protect the browser itself it will also be key. It is important that you have it updated, just like the system. In addition, having a good security program will help you detect threats of this type. Install a good antivirus to avoid problems not only with fake extensions.
However, our recommendation is that avoid having many extensions in Chrome or Firefox. Only install the ones that you are really going to need and use. You will reduce the risk, but you will also prevent the program from slowing down and starting to malfunction. The fewer you have, the better.
In short, as you can see, you can get scammed through browser extensions, such as Chrome or Firefox. Although there are browser plugins to prevent Phishing and other attacks, the truth is that many can be a real problem. It is key that you take steps to protect yourself.
