There are many extensions for browsers like Chrome. However, not all of them are safe and sometimes we can find counterfeits, add-ons created just to steal data, etc. In this article, we talk about a Chrome extension that has many downloads and that is actually adware with the ability to steal user data . We are going to explain what it consists of and what you should do to avoid this problem.
Fake Internet Download Manager extension
A very common type of extension is to use a download manager. There are many options available and they are useful for adding files, queuing them, optimizing speed, downloading them in parts… One of these options is Internet Download Manager . However, in this case we are dealing with a fake plugin that pretends to be legitimate and useful.
We are facing a major problem, since it has been downloaded more than 200,000 times. It has been able to infect many users. Furthermore, the extension actually installs a known and functional download manager, but at the same time it is adding adware. What does this mean? It can make the victim open Spam links, it can change the default search engine or flood the browser with pop-ups asking the victim to download files and can contain malware.
Basically what this extension does is redirect users to malicious sites loaded with malware. Another point to keep in mind is that they managed to sneak it into the Chrome Store, so it has been precisely in the browser’s official store to install add-ons of this type. That is why it has been able to reach many more users.
Therefore, if you have the Internet Download Manager extension installed on Chrome, you should check it out and see if it could be a scam. Ideally, you should uninstall it as soon as possible and make sure that your computer is not in danger. Note that there is a legitimate plugin with the same name, so you should check whether you have the official one or not.
One obvious difference is that when installing the fake Internet Download Manager extension, they ask to add another additional component. That is what the adware actually runs and that is where the problem starts.
How to avoid installing fake extensions
It’s important to safely install add-ons in Chrome or the browser you use. An important piece of advice is to always download the extensions from the official store , although as you can see in the case of Internet Download Manager, sometimes false ones sneak in there as well. However, beyond downloading them from official sources, it is convenient to check that they have a good rating, that they do not ask to add any additional component or that they will treat personal data well.
It is also important that you have constant review . Sometimes there may be changes to an extension. For example, an add-on that you install today may change hands in a few weeks or months and begin to act differently and even put your security at risk. It is always a good idea to check that everything is still working fine, that the extension is up to date and that there is nothing wrong.
Likewise, it is essential to keep the equipment protected . For this you can use a good antivirus, which could help in case of installing a malicious plugin that may have adware. You must also update the system to correct possible vulnerabilities that may exist.
In short, as you can see there is a popular extension for Chrome that could compromise your security. If you have it installed, it is best to delete it as soon as possible. It is essential to make the browser work well and for that you must also take care of the installed extensions.