Having plugins is very common in modern browsers. We have a wide range of possibilities in this regard. Many types of tools that allow us to control different aspects of our day to day and navigation. However, the truth is that they can also be a major problem if we do not take into account certain issues. In this article we are going to talk about how Chrome extensions could spy on us and of course what to do to avoid it.
Browser extensions, as useful as they are dangerous
As we have mentioned, the plugins that we can add in our browsers are very varied. We are going to focus on Google Chrome , since it is the most popular among users and therefore a large number of readers may be affected. At the end of the day it is also where we have more possibilities to install additional software.
It is true that the extensions are very useful, they help us to maximize the options that we have available in the browser. They allow you to carry out certain tasks, optimize resources, manage some important features. However, they can also be a focus for malware to enter and, ultimately, put our security and privacy at risk.
For this reason, we always recommend taking care of the way in which we add this type of software to our devices. The objective is to avoid problems that may compromise us, but without neglecting the possibility of obtaining benefits in the browser. Keep in mind that sometimes they could even spy on us.
How Chrome Extensions Can Spy
Although Google Chrome always tries to improve security, control all the add-ons that are in the browser, the truth is that sometimes dangerous extensions sneak in. As we know, we can only install this type of accessories from the official store. Ok, we can also add them from third-party sources, but only if we accept the risk and configure the browser for it.
We can therefore say that most users install the plugins from the official browser store . This could greatly minimize security risks. It is logical to think that if we install from reliable and official sources, we will not have problems.
But it is also a reality that fraudulent extensions sometimes sneak in. This is something that is present and that for a lot of security and effort to improve protection, it happens. Therefore we can say yes, that we can install insecure extensions.
Now, how can Chrome extensions spy on us? The first thing to keep in mind is that through the browser we send and receive a lot of data daily. We can use many services and platforms where we leave our personal information or add important data.
If a browser, in this case Chrome, has a fraudulent application, it could be used against us. This means that through malicious plug-ins they can spy on us, they can collect data on our browsing, personal information, services where we are registered, etc.
There have been cases where a Chrome extension may contain a payload that installs a Trojan on the system . This could lead to information theft not only at the browser level, but also across the entire computer. They could even steal our passwords. This is something that affects both individual users and organizations.
How to prevent spy on us with Chrome extensions
Luckily we can carry out some actions with which we can avoid being spied on by the extensions. The objective is none other than to always keep our security and privacy safe from problems.
Install from official sources
The first is the most basic and important thing: always install from official sources . We have mentioned it throughout the article. Admittedly, this is not a 100% guarantee that we are not adding any insecure plugins, but it will certainly help reduce problems.
Our advice is that whenever we are going to install an add-on, as well as any other type of software, we do it from official sources. Avoid third-party sites where they have been able to maliciously add modified software.
Read the operation and comments well
Of course we must also read very well the operation of Chrome extensions. You have to find information about what it offers, how it works and what possible problems it could have.
Luckily, in the official browser store we can find comments from other users, see the number of downloads and the evaluation. All this gives us clues about the security of this complement.
Have the extensions updated
A vital issue is that the extensions are updated correctly . Making use of any obsolete software is a problem that can affect us. However, this increases more if we talk about the browser and any plugin.
It is therefore necessary to have the extensions correctly updated. Sometimes vulnerabilities arise that can be exploited by hackers to carry out their attacks. It is essential that we have updated accessories.
Check for possible changes from time to time
Sometimes an extension can undergo changes. This means that it can stop offering the same functionality that it previously had. But it may have even been maliciously modified so that it now collects user data or has very different characteristics from the initial ones.
That is why it will also be essential to check for possible changes in these Chrome extensions. A process that we must carry out from time to time to avoid surprises and that may spy on us.
Have security tools
Finally, another method to protect ourselves is to always have security programs . We have seen that some plugins can even add malware to our system. Having a good antivirus can prevent this and thus improve our privacy. Luckily we have at our disposal a wide range of possibilities.