Web-based services have become increasingly popular among us. Through this, we can have access to tons of things, be it shopping, banking, cloud-based file sharing, etc. But when we interact with such programs- we are giving our personal and private information that is exposed to the browser. The security of these becomes exposed twofold when applications like third-party extensions and browsing plug-in keep running in the background.
These plugins or extensions combined with the already fragile security of a browser broaden the risk related to internet security. Eventually, these plug-ins or extensions with bugs can allow the malicious attackers to gain access to our private and personal data.
Browser Extensions is somewhat like a plug-in for our browsers that add numerous features to it. The idea behinds this— is to establish the user’s convenience with add-on features and modify the settings.
For example – they translate pages, add bookmarks, block ads or customize the web pages like Evernote and Grammarly. They are in millions and are used for the add-on features they bring with them like productivity, games, shopping, and more.
Extensions are in plenty, that is why they are used in wide numbers; by users for increasing productivity, and by hackers to steal our private data. These extensions make the best carriers as they can be easily hacked by malicious intents. The hackers also can either make their own extensions disguising it as a legitimate one.
1. The first thing is to remind ourselves not to install with too many browser extensions. Because not only d they affect the computers speed performance but also pose a security threat to our private personal information. Some of them even need tons of data, credentials from us to log in
2. Install the browser extensions only from official Web stores. There, they undergo at least some scrutiny, with security specialists regularly filtering out the malicious bugs from head to toe.
3. Occasionally review your bowsers plugin that you have installed on your computers. Do not leave them to dust as they can get accumulated by bugs and viruses. Those left behind extensions might get hijacked or sold over time.
4. Pay attention to the permissions that an extension requires. If an extension already installed on your computer suddenly requests strange new permission, then that should immediately raise flags; something is probably going on.
If you can’t find a logical explanation for these said permissions, it’s probably better to uninstall that extension.
Lastly use a good security solution. Keep your anti-virus ON and install IGS Cleaner, which is the Best Computer Optimizer that can detect and malicious third-party website interference.
