Asger Risom
Add-ons meant to improve browsing can also hijack accounts, steal passwords, and spy on users.
Add-ons meant to improve browsing can also hijack accounts, steal passwords, and spy on users.
The hidden risk
Browser extensions make everyday tasks easier — but they’re also one of the most overlooked security threats online.
How extensions work
They add features like ad blocking, translations, or password management by requesting permissions inside your browser.
The problem
Experts warn that more than half of the extensions analyzed in corporate environments pose a high security risk.
Even from official stores
Malicious or compromised extensions often slip through Chrome, Edge, and Firefox’s official marketplaces.
When legitimate turns dangerous
Developers can sell or transfer ownership, allowing new operators to inject tracking code or hidden malware overnight.
What attackers can do
They can steal passwords, redirect traffic to fake pages, or secretly mine cryptocurrency on your device.
The business impact
A single infected add-on can access emails, cloud storage, or company documents, breaching privacy laws like the GDPR.
Expert analysis
Security specialists say the problem isn’t limited to fake add-ons — even trusted ones can change hands without users knowing.
Everyday complacency
Most users install add-ons with a single click, ignoring the permissions that grant full access to browsing data.
How to stay safe
Only install extensions from official stores, review permissions, and remove any you don’t use or don’t trust.
Ongoing vigilance
Treat extensions like apps: review them regularly, update your security tools, and enable multi-factor authentication.
This article is made and published by Asger Risom, who may have used AI in the preparation
