Browser extensions have long been a helpful way to boost productivity and personalize your internet experience. But recently, they’ve become the latest target for cybercriminals—and users of Chrome and Edge need to stay alert.
A new wave of malicious attacks is targeting browser extensions on both Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. These aren’t just sketchy add-ons with unfamiliar names—some of the affected extensions have millions of users.
Cybersecurity experts have discovered that attackers are hijacking popular extensions or sneaking in updates that secretly inject malicious code. Once installed or updated, these compromised extensions can track your browsing activity, steal personal data, inject unwanted ads, or redirect you to phishing websites.
What makes this threat particularly concerning is how seamless it appears. A user might install a completely safe extension today, only for it to be compromised through a silent update weeks later. That’s why even trusted extensions can suddenly become dangerous.
Google and Microsoft are taking action—removing harmful extensions and tightening review policies—but the best defense still starts with the user. If you notice strange behavior in your browser—like sudden redirects, extra ads, or lag—it’s worth reviewing your extensions.
Here’s what you can do to stay safe:
• Regularly audit and remove unused extensions.
• Only install extensions from reputable developers.
• Pay attention to recent reviews and permissions.
• Use antivirus and anti-malware tools that monitor browser activity.
The internet should be a tool that empowers you, not puts your privacy at risk. Stay informed and stay cautious—the little things like a simple extension can sometimes be the doorway to big security issues.
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