What is Google Chrome?
Google Chrome is a web browser. Other examples include Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge and Opera GX.
What are browser extensions?
Browser extensions are programs that can be installed into web browsers in order to change their functionality. This includes adding new features, or modifying the existing behaviour of the program itself to make it more convenient for the user.
Examples of the type of functionality that a Google Chrome extension can add to Chrome includes:
- Blocking ads from being displayed
- Optimizing memory usage so that Chrome runs more efficiently
- Adding to do lists or notes to Chrome
- Password management
- Making it easier to copy text from a site
- Protect your privacy and making web browsing more secure.
So what is the problem?
The problem is that cybercriminals can use browser extensions to hack into your accounts. They can do this by creating fake extensions or by spoofing real ones. In either case they can be hard to spot because they can look legitimate. They can even be hidden extensions – that is, you won’t even see it in your list of extensions unless you enter a specific address in the address bar. They are still running in the background though. In each case, these extensions are up to no good, collecting email content, social media account information and more.
How do I stay safe from dangerous browser extensions?
- Firstly, just be on your guard – be cautious when you download any browser extension.
- Only add extensions from trusted sources, such as a recognised app store like the Chrome Web Store.
- Hover your mouse over a link before clicking on it – this allows you to check the URL of the website that you are going to before you click.
Happy safe web browsing!
The datamills team