Over 75 Million Users Affected by 32 Malicious Google Chrome Extensions – Remove Immediately

The purpose of Google Chrome extensions is to improve the performance of the web browser, but some of them are posing a threat to users. Cyber attackers are exploiting Chrome extensions to hijack web searches and insert advertisements into web pages. Avast, an antivirus software company, has recently uncovered a group of malicious browser extensions on the Chrome Web Store. These extensions are responsible for disseminating adware and tampering with search outcomes. It is worth mentioning that Wladimir Palant, a cybersecurity expert, was the first to scrutinize the PDF Toolbox extension, which is accessible on the Chrome Web Store.

Worryingly, the team found 32 malicious Chrome extensions in the Chrome Web Store with 75 million mass downloads. The range of functions of these extensions ranged from ad blockers, downloaders and browser themes to recorders and tab managers. It’s worth noting that 50 other extensions have already been removed from the platform, Avast confirmed in a blog post.

How do these malicious extensions pose a threat?

Avast added that the most challenging aspect of malicious browser extensions is that they appear harmless at first. These add-ons are created to provide useful features and may seem harmful at first. However, the malicious code hidden inside makes it so difficult to detect. The harmful effects of these extensions include bombarding users with unwanted ads and altering search results by displaying sponsored links, paid search results, and potentially dangerous links.

Should you be worried?

Fortunately, in this case, Google has removed all the mentioned malicious Chrome extensions.

• However, vigilance is the need of the moment! However, those who have downloaded it should remove it immediately.
• Before downloading an extension even from a popular platform like the Chrome Web Store, you should check the developer’s reputation and reviews.
• Also, be careful when you come across extensions that ask for unnecessary permissions or appear to contain irrelevant functionality.
• You can find a complete list of malicious Chrome extensions here. If you have one, remove it from your web browser now. Also, make sure you run an anti-virus program on your system.