GOOGLE Chrome users have been urged to check their browser extensions after the tech giant removed over 30 malicious apps.
These dodgy extensions had been downloaded more than 75million times before they were removed from the Chrome Web Store.
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Late last week, Google confirmed it had weeded out 34 malicious extensions that it found to be capable of injecting ads into pages and stealing sensitive data.
But even though Google has removed them from the Chrome Store, they may still be downloaded on your browser.
The malware was first spotted by cybersecurity researcher Wladimir Palant, according to BleepingComputer, after he analysed the PDF Toolbox extension and uncovered a hidden code.
The code would activate 24 hours after the extension was installed, the report said.
With the help of researchers at Avast, 32 apps were discovered to put users at risk before Google eventually tallied the number up to 34.
However, Palant noted that this list is “unlikely to be complete,” with there being more dodgy apps lurking out there.
Some of the most popular extensions include Autoskip for YouTube which has 9million active users, Soundboost with 6.9million, and Crystal Ad block with 6.8million.
However, there was also a Zoom Plus extension that had been downloaded more than 2.3million times.
To make sure you’re not downloading a malicious extension, check the reviews.
“Many reviews for these extensions appear to be fake,” explained Palant.
“There are also just as many reviews complaining about functional issues: people notice that these extensions aren’t really being developed.”
It’s also wise to check the name for any spelling mistakes or repeated words.
A legitimate app wouldn’t spell its name or services incorrectly, or repeat words in its name.
A Google spokesperson said: “The Chrome Web Store has policies in place to keep users safe that all developers must adhere to.”
Here’s the full list:
- Autoskip for YouTube
- Soundboost
- Crystal Ad block
- Brisk VPN
- Clipboard Helper
- Maxi Refresher
- Quick Translation
- Easyview Reader view
- PDF Toolbox
- Epsilon Ad blocker
- Craft Cursors
- Alfablocker ad blocker
- Zoom Plus
- Base Image Downloader
- Clickish fun cursors
- Cursor A custom cursor
- Amazin Dark Mode
- Maximum Color Changer for YouTube
- Awesome Auto Refresh
- Venus Adblock
- Adblock Dragon
- Readl Reader mode
- Volume Frenzy
- Image download center
- Font Customizer
- Easy Undo Closed Tabs
- Screence screen recorder
- OneCleaner
- Repeat button
- Leap Video Downloader
- Tap Image Downloader
- Qspeed Video Speed Controller
- HyperVolume
- Light picture-in-picture
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