Browser extensions can boost your productivity — or steal your data.
The same “Dark Mode for YouTube” or “Download Video” tool might be tracking your every click.
Here’s how to tell if a browser extension is helpful, or a hidden threat.
✅ 1. Always check who made it
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Look for a verified developer
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In the Chrome Web Store, check if it’s by a known company or team
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Avoid extensions with no listed author or vague names
✅ Example: “Grammarly” by Grammarly Inc. = good
❌ “SpellCorrect++” by ExtensionWorld XYZ = suspicious
✅ 2. Check the number of users and reviews
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Low install count (under 5,000) with 5-star-only reviews = red flag
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Review timestamps that all appear within a few days = likely fake
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Are negative reviews being hidden or deleted?
✅ 3. Review requested permissions
Click “Details” → check what the extension asks to access:
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“Read and change all your data on all websites” → high risk
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“Access your clipboard” or “Manage downloads” → could be abused
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If it’s a calculator but asks for full web access — run.
✅ 4. Use extension scanners
Try:
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CRXcavator.io – security analysis of Chrome extensions
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Privacy Badger – blocks trackers from extensions
These tools scan known threats and tracker scripts.
✅ 5. Watch for behavior changes after install
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Browser suddenly slower?
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Homepage changed?
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Ads appearing on sites that normally don’t show ads?
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CPU spikes when browser is open?
Uninstall the extension and re-check performance.
Key points to remember
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Always check the developer, permissions, and user reviews
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Be suspicious of new, unverified, or overly-permissive extensions
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Use tools to scan extension code and behavior
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If in doubt, don’t install — or test in a separate browser profile
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Your browser = your gateway to everything — keep it clean