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2025-03-02
Dangerous Chrome Extensions IdentifiedāDelete Them Now!
Cybersecurity experts are warning Google Chrome users about 16 popular extensions that pose serious security risks. These extensions, designed for ad-blocking, screen capture, video effects, and other functionalities, have been compromised by hackers to inject malicious scripts into usersā browsers. The attack puts over 3.2 million users at risk, exposing their data and enabling cybercriminals to manipulate search engine results through unauthorized ads and fraudulent activities.
The alarming discovery was made by GitLab Threat Intelligence, which revealed that these extensions had been hijacked by a well-known “threat actor.” As a result, hackers gained control over user data, injecting harmful advertisements and rerouting traffic for financial gain. Google has already removed these extensions from the Chrome Web Store, but users must manually uninstall them immediately to protect their devices.
List of Affected Extensions:
– Blipshot
– Emojis (Emoji Keyboard)
– Color Changer for YouTube
– Video Effects for YouTube and Audio Enhancer
– Themes for Chrome and YouTube
– Picture in Picture
– Mike Adblock fĆ¼r Chrome
– Super Dark Mode
– Emoji Keyboard Emojis for Chrome
– Adblocker for Chrome (NoAds)
– Adblock for You
– Adblock for Chrome
– Nimble Capture
– KProxy
– Page Refresh
– Wistia Video Downloader
– WAToolkit
What You Should Do:
- Uninstall these extensions immediately if you have them installed.
- Run an antivirus scan to check for malware or other security threats.
- Avoid installing unknown or unverified extensions to protect your data.
What Undercode Says:
The security risks posed by browser extensions are a growing concern, and this latest breach underscores how even trusted extensions can turn malicious. Many users rely on Chrome extensions for enhanced functionality, but they often ignore the potential security vulnerabilities these add-ons introduce.
The Rise of Malicious Extensions
The attack on these 16 extensions is not an isolated incident. Over the past few years, numerous browser add-ons have been compromised, repurposed, or hijacked by cybercriminals to steal user data, manipulate search results, and inject ads.
- Browser Hijacking: Many malicious extensions redirect usersā search queries to generate revenue through fraudulent ad clicks.
- Data Theft: Some extensions collect personal data, login credentials, or browsing history and send it to attackers.
- Stealthy Malware Injection: Infected extensions can insert harmful scripts that bypass security protections and infect usersā devices.
Why These Extensions Were Targeted
Popular Chrome extensions attract millions of users, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. Hackers often infiltrate the development teams of legitimate extensions or acquire them from their original developers, injecting malicious code in updates before pushing them to users. Since browser updates are typically automated, users unknowingly install the compromised version.
Googleās Response and Security Gaps
Google has removed these extensions, but the reactive nature of security leaves users vulnerable until threats are identified. The Chrome Web Store does have security measures, but malicious extensions often evade detection using sophisticated obfuscation techniques.
To counter such threats, users must take proactive steps, such as:
1. Regularly reviewing installed extensions and removing those no longer needed.
2. Checking developer credibility before installing extensions.
- Monitoring permissions requested by extensions. If an ad blocker asks for access to all browsing data, thatās a red flag.
Future Threats & How to Stay Safe
As cyber threats continue to evolve, browser extensions will remain a significant attack vector. Cybercriminals will exploit new vulnerabilities in extensions, so users must be vigilant and proactive in their security habits.
Undercodeās Final Take
This incident is yet another reminder that convenience comes at a cost. Users must be cautious about installing extensions, no matter how popular they are. The best defense is awareness, skepticism, and regular security checks. Always stay updated with cybersecurity alerts and follow best practices to protect your online privacy.
Fact Checker Results:
ā True: The extensions were indeed compromised and used to inject malicious ads and scripts.
ā Confirmed: Google has removed these extensions from the Chrome Web Store.
ā Advised: Users must manually uninstall the extensions to remove the threat.
References:
Reported By: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/google-to-chrome-users-delete-these-16-popular-extensions-right-now/articleshow/118663329.cms
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