There’s confusion around Chrome extension safety. Google claims less than 1% contain malware, but Stanford researchers say a whopping 280 million users installed malicious extensions in just over two years! Even worse, these extensions lingered in the Chrome Web Store for an average of 380 days.

Here’s how to be a smarter Chrome extension user:

Don’t just click “add” blindly! Take the time to read about the extension’s functionality and research the developer behind it. Are they reputable? Do they have a website with contact information? Reading reviews from other users can also be helpful in spotting potential red flags.

Extensions can accumulate over time, and unused ones can pose a security risk. Take a look at your installed extensions periodically and remove any you no longer need. This minimizes the attack surface for malicious actors.

Installing a chrome extension.

Extensions often request access to various websites in order to function. However, be wary of extensions asking for permissions that seem unnecessary. For example, a grammar extension probably doesn’t need access to your email. Limit the websites each extension can access to only those essential for its core functionality.

Chrome’s Enhanced Protection mode offers an extra layer of security. This mode not only protects against phishing and malware but also includes features specifically designed to safeguard you from potentially harmful extensions. Enabling Enhanced Protection is a simple yet effective way to boost your online safety.

Chrome extension safety can be confusing! While vigilance is key, wouldn’t it be great to have peace of mind knowing your extensions are secure? Lancing Light, LLC is your one-stop shop for all security, web, and tech needs. We can help you audit your extensions, ensure optimal security settings, and navigate the ever-changing digital landscape. Don’t wait until you encounter a problem – take control today! Contact Lancing Light, LLC for a free consultation and see how we can empower your online experience.