Recently, it has been discovered that a total of 30 Google Chrome extensions have been compromised and are injecting malware into users' systems. This finding highlights the importance of maintaining constant vigilance over the applications we use on a daily basis. Below, we will share all the details about this situation that affects thousands of users of the popular browsing tool.
Which extensions are infected?
The extensions involved in this issue are primarily those focused on browser optimization, download management, and file conversions. Although the specific names of the extensions in question have not been revealed, it has been indicated that many of them were available in the official Chrome store and were downloaded by a large number of users.
Infection mechanism
The way these infected extensions operated was subtle. Once installed, they functioned normally but introduced snippets of malicious code that allowed attackers to remotely control users' systems. This type of malware can steal sensitive information, inject unwanted ads, and in some cases, redirect users to dangerous websites.
How to identify malicious extensions
To prevent the installation of malicious extensions, it is recommended to follow some practical tips:
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Check ratings and reviews: Before installing any extension, review the ratings given by other users and read their comments.
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Review requested permissions: When installing an extension, it is crucial to pay attention to the permissions it requests. If a tool requires access to data that is not necessary for its operation, it's better to opt for another option.
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Keep the browser updated: Always ensure you are using the latest available version of Google Chrome, as updates usually include important security patches.
Security recommendations
If you have installed any of the mentioned extensions, it is advisable to uninstall them immediately. Additionally, it is recommended to run a scan with security software to detect and eliminate any potential threats on your device. It is also helpful to enable the built-in protection tools provided by the browser.
On the other hand, Google has reported that it is working on removing these affected extensions from its store and is reinforcing its security protocols to prevent future incidents of this kind.
Conclusion
Online security is paramount, and sometimes, threats can come from unexpected places, such as browser extensions. Staying informed and adopting safe browsing habits is essential to protect your personal information.
If you would like to know more news about cybersecurity and other topics of interest, I invite you to keep reading on my blog. Stay informed and safe online!
