In a recent discovery, cybersecurity giant Kaspersky has uncovered nearly 34 malicious Google Chrome extensions, with a combined total of 87 million downloads. One of these extensions alone accounted for nine million downloads.
The investigation by Kaspersky began with the identification of the PDF Toolbox extension, which injected arbitrary code into web pages viewed by users. Subsequent research led to the uncovering of 33 additional malicious extensions, each claiming to serve a different purpose.
While Google has removed these dangerous extensions from the Chrome Web Store, it is important to note that they may still be present on users’ devices. Kaspersky urges users to check their extensions and remove any that are found to be malicious.
Malicious Chrome extensions
Kaspersky commends Google for taking action and removing these malicious extensions upon notification from researchers and experts. However, they criticize Google for not addressing user feedback, as many users had reported suspicious behavior and adware redirects caused by these extensions. TechRadar Pro has reached out to Google for comment regarding this issue.
The following Chrome extensions have been identified as malicious and should be removed, according to Kaspersky’s instructions:
- Autoskip for Youtube
- Soundboost
- Crystal Adblock
- 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
- Amazing 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
On a broader note, Kaspersky raises concerns about the security risks associated with browser plugins, as they often require extensive access privileges to user data on all websites. This makes them capable of tracking users, compromising sensitive information, and displaying unwanted ads.
Therefore, Kaspersky advises users to be cautious when downloading extensions and recommends minimizing their usage for enhanced safety. It also emphasizes the importance of utilizing endpoint protection software whenever possible and recommends users regularly remove unnecessary plugins.
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