Although they were created and developed to facilitate Internet browsing for users, some extensions of Google Chrome they can be malicious.
Many Internet users use extensions to obtain discounts, correct texts, take screenshots, among other tools, but there are other such tools that mimic the appearance of the most used extensions and that can put Internet users’ privacy at risk.
As the website explains ZD Net in his report, citing a post from the official blog of mcafee published on Monday, August 29, malicious extensions redirect users to phishing sites and insert affiliate IDs into cookies on e-commerce sites.
The security company adds that the extensions also track users’ browsing activity and every visit to the website is sent to servers owned by the extension’s creator.
The creator of the extension can then insert code into the e-commerce websites the user visits and receive affiliate payments for any items the user purchases. There is an implied violation of consumer privacy when browsing data is shared.
The five malicious extensions identified
The five malicious extensions that McAfee identified were Netflix Party, Netflix Party 2, FlipShope – Price Tracker Extension, Full Page Screenshot Capture – Screenshotting and AutoBuy Flash Saleswith a total installed base of more than 1.4 million users.
The specific extension names and extension code IDs, in the following image.
The best way to avoid being affected by these extensions is to be careful when installing these tools in Google Chrome. McAfee also advises users to pay attention to the permission prompts displayed by Chrome before installing the extension.