If you're one of the millions who installed these malicious Google Chrome extensions, delete them now

Date:
Wed, 05 Jul 2023 12:15:49 +0000

Description:
These Chrome extensions have been removed from the Web Store, but you'll
still need to remove them from your browser.

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Cybersecurity giant Kaspersky has identified nearly three dozen Google Chrome extensions carrying a malicious payload, which collectively have amassed around 87 million downloads, including one which accounted for nine million downloads alone.

The company's research stems from the discovery of the PDF Toolbox extension, which loaded arbitrary code on all pages viewed by the user. Further analyses revealed a total of 34 malicious extensions, all marketed as serving
different purposes.

While the browser extensions have since been removed from the Chrome Web Store, Kaspersky is quick to point out that they will still be available on users devices, urging them to check the list of dodgy extensions and remove any malicious ones. Malicious Chrome extensions

Kaspersky commended Google for removing the malicious extensions upon notification from the researcher responsible for the discovery and a paper by another team of experts, but criticizes the company for not acting on
customer reviews. Read more

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Researchers claim malware is rife on the Google Play Store

A host of malicious Google Chrome extensions with 75 million installs have

been removed

Many complained of URLs which would mysteriously redirect to adware sites,
and in fact, a number of the extensions had already been reported as suspicious by users. TechRadar Pro has asked Google to confirm why user feedback went unnoticed.

The following Chrome extensions should be removed, according to Kasperskys 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

More broadly, Kaspersky challenges browser plugins which typically require full access to view and change data on all sites. As such, they can track users, compromise credentials and payment information, and embed ads.

The cybersecurity firms advice, then, is to avoid downloading extensions
where possible. It says: the fewer - the safer. Users should also remove plugins that they no longer need, and make good use of endpoint protection software wherever possible. Add that extra layer of protection with the best firewalls



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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/pro/if-youre-one-of-the-millions-who-installed-these -malicious-google-chrome-extensions-delete-them-now


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