All Google Chrome users told to check for 34 bank-raiding apps – including free ad blockers and VPNs you must delete
BILLIONS of Google Chrome users have been urged to check their browsers for a series of dubious add-on apps discovered by experts.
Researchers have found 34 Chrome extensions that claim to be able to see and change all of your data on the websites you visit.
1
This means a hacker could steal sensitive card details to loot your bank accounts.
They could even track all your activities to collect and sell the information.
The extensions tend to be enticing free tools like ad blockers and VPNs.
In total, the extensions were downloaded around 87 million times.
According to Kaspersky experts, one of them alone was responsible for nine million downloads.
The problematic extensions have now been removed from the Google Chrome Store.
However, that doesn’t protect you if you already have them installed.
In this case, you should see the full list of extensions and delete any that are present.
- Autoskip for Youtube
- sound boost
- Crystal Adblocker
- Fast VPN
- Clipboard Helper
- Maxi refresher
- Fast translation
- Easyview Reader view
- PDF toolbox
- Epsilon ad blocker
- craft cursor
- Alfablocker ad blocker
- ZoomPlus
- Base Image Downloader
- Clicky, fun cursors
- Cursor – A custom cursor
- Amazing dark mode
- Maximum color changer for Youtube
- Great auto update
- Venus adblock
- Adblock Dragon
- Readl Reader mode
- volume frenzy
- Image Download Center
- Font Customizer
- Easily undo closed tabs
- Screence screen recorder
- OneCleaner
- Repeat button
- Leap Video Downloader
- Tap on picture downloader
- Qspeed video speed controller
- HyperVolume
- Bright picture-in-picture
How to avoid dubious Chrome extensions
Kaspersky recommends users not to install too many browser extensions for security reasons.
You should always read the reviews before installing an extension.
While it’s not a panacea, someone might point out problems – but even brand new extensions with no reviews whatsoever can be a red flag.
From time to time, review your list of installed extensions and remove those that you no longer use or need.
The best tips and hacks for phones and gadgets
Looking for tips and hacks for your phone? Want to find these secret features in social media apps? We are here for you…
Get the latest WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and other tech gadget stories here.
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at tech@the-sun.co.uk