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Chrome extensions getting hacked will alarm millions of users who rely on them for AI tools and new wallpapers.
Extensions on the browser can expose your personal data.
Chrome users rely on extensions for different built-in features and a recent hacking issue will have them worried about their systems and data. The large-scale hacking is going to leave millions exposed, so much that their security authentication could be at risk of these hackers in the next few months. The hacking issue was first discovered and reported by a cybersecurity firm named Cyberhaven whose extension became victim of the same attack.
Phishing Attack Strikes Again
The cyberattack on extensions have been organised with the help of phishing. The cybersecurity firm was phished into allowing the hackers to access its original tools, and that gave them backdoor access to millions of users who have installed its extensions or more.
Phishing is primarily coercing people to open emails or links with malicious content that can allow the hacker to access data and other entry points into the targeted system. Cyberhaven fell into this dangerous trap and it is likely there are other Chrome extension publishers who faced the wrath of this attack recently.
The developer got an email claiming their Chrome Web Store support will be removed for violating Google’s developer policies. The email had a link which would have fixed the issue, but the firm ended up giving access of its database to the hackers which has prompted the concerns.
Chrome Extensions Danger: What To Do
Chrome extensions primarily help you enhance the use of the browser with new wallpaper apps, and even AI tools. Using them is not a risk but the hacking news means you need to safeguard how and which of these you have installed.
In case you have the Cyberhaven extension, we suggest you to avoid opening links or emails from unknown senders, or access websites that you have no reason to visit. Also, recheck your accounts and maybe consider using a reliable password manager to secure them.