Browser extensions are handy tools that enhance the functionality of web browsers. They make tasks like spelling checks, note-taking, and ad-blocking more convenient. However, these innocent-looking tools can turn around and challenge an organization’s security status, mainly when used with software-as-a-service (SaaS) apps like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365.
Spin.AI conducted research last year on about 300,000 browser extensions, which shows the dangers these extensions present. The study revealed that many have access to sensitive content, which can lead to data theft and compliance issues.
The Reality of Malicious Browser Extensions
Malicious browser extensions are small software units infected with harmful code. This code is activated during the installation process, allowing it to extract sensitive user data without the user’s knowledge. Although browser extensions are primarily designed to enhance web functionality, they have recently become a means to spread malware and exploit users.
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As a result, many businesses are now turning to enterprise browsers. What is enterprise browser? An enterprise browser is a dedicated, corporate web browser designed to give enterprises enhanced security and control over how the browser functions while ensuring a seamless browsing experience for employees.
How Malicious Browser Extensions Work
Some extensions are known to be malicious from the start. They contain harmful code that activates once installed in a system. Others, on the other hand, are usually harmless at first but are later updated with malicious code, making a once-trusted extension a dangerous tool for cybercriminals.
Origin of Malicious Extensions on Your Computer
Malicious extensions can infiltrate computer systems in various ways. Most often, users install them voluntarily, believing they are legitimate. These add-ons are frequently distributed through official marketplaces.
Last year, Google removed over 30 malicious extensions from the Chrome Web Store, which had been downloaded 75 million times. Additionally, malicious extensions can be introduced through illegally downloaded content or malvertising. Potentially unwanted programs, such as the Wave browser virus, can also install harmful plug-ins.
Types of Malicious Extensions
Malicious extensions can be categorized into three types:
- Initially Malicious Extensions:
Those created by adversaries from scratch for malicious purposes.
- Compromised Extensions:
Initially, legitimate extensions are those that adversaries take over after purchasing the extension or compromising the developer’s account.
- Risky Extensions:
Legitimate extensions that have excessive permissions.
The Dangers of Malicious Browser Extensions
- Sensitive Information Theft
Malicious extensions can perform keylogging activities, tracking keystrokes to gather valuable information such as credit card details, banking passwords, and other sensitive data. For instance, the “Cloud9” extension is known for such keylogging activities, which is a significant risk to online shoppers who store their payment information in their browsers.
- Distribution of Malware and Viruses
Malicious extensions can install keyloggers to track users’ browser activity and establish footholds on computers within an organization. Once inside the system, hackers can bypass network defenses, spy on other computers, and distribute viruses throughout the network.
- Impact on System Performance and Stability
While legitimate extensions aim to speed up online tasks, malicious ones do the opposite. They can drastically slow down your computer by consuming its resources, corrupting personal data and programs, or attempting to crash the system.
How to Stay Safe
Browser extensions are helpful but should be treated with caution. Here are some security measures to consider:
- Download Extensions from Official Sources
Although this is not a foolproof guarantee, official platforms like the Chrome Web Store are more likely to screen and remove malicious extensions.
- Limit the Number of Extensions
Only install extensions that are genuinely needed. Review and uninstall those that are no longer in use regularly.
- Use a Reliable Security Solution
Tools like LayerX Security can help protect against malicious extensions.
- Scan Extensions with Antivirus Software
Regularly use antivirus software to scan for malicious extensions.
- Report Suspicious Extensions
If you encounter a suspicious extension, report it to the official marketplace and your IT team to help protect others.
How to Detect Malicious Chrome Extensions
Detecting malicious extensions involves practicing good cyber hygiene:
- Update Your Browser
Keeping your Chrome browser updated can help protect against known threats. Enabling Chrome’s Enhanced Safe Browsing technology can provide real-time scanning for phishing and malware sites.
- Check Developers’ Backgrounds
Ensure extension developers are trustworthy and have a public profile or website—download extensions directly from reputable sources.
- Monitor Browser Behavior
Be alert for unusual browser behavior, such as excessive advertising, which may indicate the presence of adware. Check the activity of all extensions and deactivate them one by one to identify the malicious ones.
- Double-Check Required Permissions
Be wary of extensions requesting permissions that seem excessive or unrelated to their functionality. Avoid installing extensions that require access to sensitive data or personal information.
Malicious Extensions on Other Browsers
While Chrome is often targeted due to its popularity, other browsers are not immune. Malicious extensions also affect browsers like Microsoft Edge, Safari, and others.
Here are some examples of malicious extensions on other browsers:
- Netflix Party
The Netflix Party extension was initially developed to allow synchronized content viewing with friends and family. However, it was discovered that this extension tracked users’ digital footprints and injected browsers with affiliate links. Fraudsters exploited the Netflix Party to manipulate users’ browsing histories, allowing them to earn money through deceptive means.
- SaveFrom.Net
SaveFrom.Net is a popular extension that enables users to download media from websites like TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook with just one click. Despite its popularity, SaveFrom.Net collected and leaked users’ IP addresses and browsing behavior data. Thereby breaching people’s privacy.
- Full Page Screenshot Capture
For users who prefer not to use keyboard shortcuts for taking screenshots, extensions like Full Page Screenshot Capture offer an easy solution. This extension, installed by over 200,000 users, turned out to be adware. It tracked private data and altered the location of cookies on e-commerce websites, disguising their original URLs as referral sites.
Conclusion
Malicious browser extensions pose a massive risk to organizations. They can potentially lead to data theft, malware distribution, and system performance issues. By understanding how these extensions work, where they come from, and the different types of threats they pose, organizations can better protect themselves.
Moreover, implementing safety measures such as downloading extensions from official sources, limiting the number of installed extensions, using reliable security solutions like LayerX Security, and practicing good cyber hygiene can help mitigate these risks.
