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Tom's Guide
Tom's Guide
1y ago 281 views

Malicious Extensions for Chrome and Edge Discovered Stealing Personal Data

A recent cybersecurity report has revealed that several browser extensions for Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are maliciously harvesting users' personal data. These extensions, purportedly offering useful features, are instead siphoning sensitive information without users' consent.
Malicious Extensions for Chrome and Edge Discovered Stealing Personal Data
A What happened
A recent cybersecurity report has revealed that several browser extensions for Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are maliciously harvesting users' personal data. These extensions, purportedly offering useful features, are instead siphoning sensitive information without users' consent.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Rising Threat of Malicious Browser Extensions

    The article highlights the growing menace of malicious browser extensions that disguise themselves as useful tools while secretly stealing users' personal data. These extensions can be downloaded from official web stores, making them appear legitimate and trustworthy.

  • 2

    Implications for User Privacy

    The data stolen by these extensions can include browsing history, personal identification information, and even login credentials. This poses a significant risk to user privacy and security, potentially leading to identity theft and other cybercrimes.

  • 3

    Steps to Protect Yourself

    Users are advised to be cautious when installing browser extensions. It is crucial to check reviews, verify the developer's credibility, and ensure that the extension has necessary permissions. Regularly updating the browser and using security tools can also help mitigate risks.

Takeaways

The discovery of these malicious browser extensions underscores the importance of cybersecurity awareness. Users must take proactive measures to protect their personal data from being compromised by seemingly harmless tools. Vigilance and informed decision-making are key to maintaining online security.