Extensions Make Browsing Better
Modern Internet browsers offer the ability to install extra functionality to make surfing easier, faster and safer. This functionality is enabled through browser extensions (Chrome, Opera), also known as addons (Microsoft Edge) or plugins (Firefox For example, LastPass lets you generate complex passwords and use them across browsers and devices securely. But they can also make browsing less secure.
Extensions Make Browsing Less Secure
Internet browser extensions can make browsing less secure in several ways:
- Extensions may require access to your Internet activity and private information.
- Extensions increase the uniqueness of your browser fingerprint, which makes you easier to identify to advertisers, governments and hackers.
- Outdated extensions are vulnerable.
- Extension ownership may change, allowing hackers to quietly replace trusted extensions with...something else.
Install With Caution
Browser plugins are installed via the browser's extension store or when visiting a website that prompts installation. The How-To Geek shows how to make sure an extension is safe before installing it.
But extensions can also be installed behind the scenes when installing other software. The Adobe Acrobat reader is commonly installed by other apps. Invasive search extensions and home page and search engine replacements are also installed deceptively when installing unrelated software.
What should I do?
- Remove unused extensions. Disabled extensions remain visible in your browser fingerprint and offer hacking opportunities.
- Limit access to the extension to read and change all your data on websites you visit. In some browsers, you can allow it only when clicked, only on specific websites, or all the time (e.g. password managers).
- Update your extensions regularly, but also check for ownership changes. The Qualsys BrowserCheck shows if you need updates.
