Checking Chrome extension safety involves both using built-in Chrome features and performing manual checks before installation.
Chrome provides a built-in tool called Safety Check, which can identify potential issues with installed extensions along with other security settings.
Chrome's Safety Check feature scans for various security issues, including known harmful extensions, compromised passwords, outdated Chrome versions, and unsafe settings.
Here’s how to run a Safety Check in Chrome:
- Open Google Chrome.
- Click the three vertical dots in the top-right corner to open the menu.
- Select Settings.
- On the left, select Privacy and security.
- Under “Safety Check,” select Go to Safety Check.
- Click the Check now button.
Chrome will run a scan. If it finds any issues, including potentially harmful extensions: Select the item with the issue to see details and steps on how to resolve it, which may include removing the extension.
Evaluating Extensions Before Installation
While Safety Check helps identify issues with installed extensions, a crucial step for safety is evaluating an extension before you add it to your browser. Here are key factors to consider:
Check Requested Permissions
Extensions often require permissions to function. Carefully review the permissions an extension requests before installing. An extension asking for broad access (like "Read and change all your data on all websites") when its function seems simple (like changing a page's background color) could be a red flag.
- Example Permissions & Considerations:
- "Read and change all your data on all websites": Allows the extension to see everything you do online and change web pages. High risk if not justified by the extension's purpose.
- "Read your browsing history": Can track every website you visit.
- "Manage your apps, extensions, and themes": Could potentially install other extensions without your knowledge.
Read User Reviews and Ratings
The Chrome Web Store listing includes user reviews and ratings. Look for:
- A high number of users and positive overall ratings.
- Recent reviews.
- Specific comments mentioning malicious behavior, excessive ads, or unexpected activity. Be wary of extensions with many low ratings or reports of issues.
Research the Publisher or Developer
Check who published the extension. Is it a reputable company or developer?
- Look for a linked website on the Chrome Web Store page.
- Search online for information about the developer. Legitimate developers often have a clear online presence.
Examine the Chrome Web Store Listing Details
A comprehensive and professional-looking store listing is a good sign.
- Is there a detailed description of what the extension does?
- Are screenshots provided?
- When was the last update? An extension that hasn't been updated in years might have security vulnerabilities or be abandoned.
Consider the Number of Users
Extensions with a large number of users are often (though not always) safer bets, as malicious activity is more likely to be reported and detected by Chrome. However, popular extensions can also be bought by malicious actors.
Summary of Extension Safety Checks
Here's a quick overview of the different methods:
| Method | When to Use | What it Checks For | Benefits | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chrome Safety Check | On installed extensions | Known harmful extensions, general security issues | Built-in, easy to run, identifies known risks | Doesn't analyze all extensions proactively |
| Review Permissions | Before installation | Access to your data and browser functionality | Identifies potential privacy/security risks | Requires understanding permission scopes |
| Check Reviews/Ratings | Before installation | User experiences, reported issues/malware | Community feedback, practical insights | Reviews can be faked, may not catch new threats |
| Research Publisher | Before installation | Developer legitimacy and reputation | Assesses trustworthiness of source | Developers can be obscure but still legitimate |
| Examine Listing | Before installation | Professionalism, clear purpose, recent activity | Indicates active development and transparency | Store listing can be misleading |
By combining these approaches, you can significantly reduce the risk of installing unsafe Chrome extensions.
