Google Chrome is one of the most widely used web browsers, with over 100,000 extensions available in the Chrome Web Store designed to improve your browsing experience. From tools that enhance productivity to fun add-ons for Netflix parties, these extensions promise to make your life easier. However, recent revelations have raised concerns about the safety and security of these extensions. Some are not just enhancing functionality—they might be spying on you, stealing your data, or even injecting malicious code into your system.

The Problem with Chrome Extensions

One of the most pressing issues surrounding the Chrome Web Store is the rise of shady practices used by some developers to push their extensions to the top of search rankings. One common method is keyword stuffing, where developers fill extension descriptions with over 18,000 keywords, misleading users and gaming the system to ensure their extension ranks higher than it should. While these extensions may seem appealing at first, they often come with hidden baggage. Users may unknowingly install extensions that are designed to harvest their data, show intrusive ads, or even install malware that compromises the security of their browsers.

Despite Google’s efforts to maintain security with automated checks and rules, the sheer volume of extensions makes it difficult to catch everything right away. In January 2025, a supply chain attack exposed this vulnerability, with a dozen popular extensions being compromised and potentially affecting millions of users. This attack showed how dangerous the situation could be, with harmful extensions making their way into the store undetected.

Google’s Efforts to Address the Issue

In response to these growing concerns, Google has tightened its policies around extensions in the Chrome Web Store. They have introduced stricter guidelines for developers, faster takedowns of suspicious extensions, and additional human oversight to catch what automated systems might miss. While these efforts are a step in the right direction, the open-door approach of the Chrome Web Store continues to be exploited by malicious actors. Striking the right balance between user convenience and security has proven to be a challenging task for Google.

One of the latest threats to emerge is phishing campaigns targeting developers. Bad actors have been tricking extension developers into giving up access to their accounts through fake Google emails. Once these attackers have control, they can push malicious updates to legitimate extensions, infecting users without their knowledge. This type of attack is especially worrying because it targets trusted extensions, making it even harder for users to detect the threat.

A Business Issue Too

The dangers of compromised extensions aren’t just a concern for individual users—they can also pose significant risks to businesses. Imagine an employee installing an infected extension that then leaks sensitive client data or company information. In fact, a 2023 study revealed that 1 in 10 Chrome Web Store submissions were flagged as malicious, and that number is likely even higher today. For businesses, this could lead to data breaches, reputational damage, and significant financial losses.

Three Takeaways and Next Steps

Given the ongoing risks associated with Chrome extensions, it’s crucial for both individuals and businesses to be vigilant. Here are three steps you can take to protect yourself and your data:

1. Dig Into Reviews and Ratings
   Before installing an extension, take a moment to read through user reviews and ratings. Look for recurring complaints, such as unexpected pop-ups, slowdowns, or odd glitches. If there’s a pattern of negative feedback, it might be worth reconsidering whether to install that extension.

2. Check Out the Developer
   Stick to extensions from developers you know and trust. A quick Google search or a glance at the developer’s website can often reveal whether they have a history of creating secure and reliable software. Developers with a solid track record are less likely to engage in shady practices.

3. Watch Those Permissions
   Pay close attention to the permissions an extension requests. If an extension asks for access to sensitive information, such as your full browsing history or the ability to read data on all websites you visit, be cautious. A reputable extension should only request the minimum permissions necessary to function. If it seems like the extension is asking for more than it needs, look for an alternative.

Conclusion

The Chrome Web Store has become a vast marketplace of helpful extensions, but it’s also become a breeding ground for shady developers, hackers, and malicious software. As a user, it’s important to stay informed and take steps to protect yourself from potentially dangerous extensions. By being mindful of reviews, developer credentials, and permissions, you can enjoy the benefits of Chrome extensions without putting your data or security at risk. In a digital age where privacy and security are more important than ever, a little caution can go a long way in keeping you safe.