If you use Google Chrome for business, you are undoubtedly familiar with extensions. These essential tools may improve your browsing experience in a variety of ways, including removing unwanted ads and decreasing distractions.
Extensions are quite popular since they provide so much functionality to your browser. However, just as you should be cautious when installing new apps on your phone, you should also be cautious while adding new browser extensions. That’s because they carry the risk of malware.
It stands for malicious software, which is any program that is purposefully designed to do damage to a computer, server, or network. Malware is used by cybercriminals to steal data, hijack computers, and even empty bank accounts.
Google Chrome accounts for over 65% of the global browser market share, making it the most popular browser by far. Chrome’s widespread use makes it an ideal target for cybercriminals. While cyber attacks sometimes exploit vulnerabilities in the browser itself, there’s an easier way to target Chrome users: Through malicious extensions containing malware.
Although Google keeps a tight watch on its Chrome Web Store, the risk is still there. According to a recent estimate, 280 million users installed malware-infected Chrome extensions between July 2020 and February 2023. That’s a huge number and highlights the importance of being vigilant.
Surprisingly, several malicious extensions were still accessible for download from the Chrome Web Store for a long period. Malware-infested extensions were active for an average of 380 days, while those containing vulnerable code lasted around 1,248 days. One especially notorious extension was available for 8 and a half years before being deleted.
So, how can you keep yourself and your business safe from these dangerous extensions? Here are five steps we suggest.
- External reviews: Because examining ratings and reviews on the Chrome Web Store isn’t always accurate (many malicious extensions lack feedback), seek for external reviews from reputable tech sites to determine whether an extension is secure.
- Permissions: Be cautious if an extension asks for more permissions than it should. If a new extension requests extensive access to your data or system, this could be a red flag.
- Security software: Use robust software to detect malware before it does harm. This is your last line of defense if you unintentionally install a malicious extension.
- Necessity: Before installing any new software or browser extensions, assess whether you actually need them. Often, you may obtain the same functionality by visiting a website.
- Trusted sources: Only install extensions from trustworthy websites or well-known software companies. This drastically lowers the likelihood of downloading a dangerous extension.
Chrome is the most used browser, thus it will always be a target for cybercriminals. Google’s security team works hard to guarantee that every Chrome extension is safe, but it’s still important to remain careful.
If you’re not sure whether your extensions are safe or need further information on how to keep your business secure, our team can help. Get in touch.