Browser Extension: In today’s digital era, Internet has become an important part of our daily work. We do important tasks like online shopping, social media, e-mail and banking only through the browser. To make this browser more “smart”, people use browser extensions. But do you know that these small extensions can also keep an eye on your banking activities? If not, then this article is very important for you.
What is a browser extension?
Browser extension is a kind of small software or add-on which is installed in web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Edge. Its purpose is to increase the features of the browser.
For example:
- Blocking Ads
- manage passwords
- taking a screenshot
- Changing website design
- Grammar or spelling check
These extensions may appear small and useful but they have many important permissions related to the browser.
Why do browser extensions get so much permission?
When you install an extension, it asks you for some permissions like permission to read and change data of all websites, permission to view browsing history, access to open tabs. Often people click on “Allow” or “Add Extension” without reading. This is where the danger begins. If an extension is created with malicious intentions, it can track your every online activity.
How browser extensions can monitor your banking activity?
When you visit any website related to net banking or UPI, the browser extension can see the data present on that page. Some dangerous extensions may monitor your information in these ways:
recording keystrokes
Some extensions may record the information you type. This may also include sensitive information like username, password or OTP.
Read page content
If the extension has permission to “Read and change all your data on websites” then it can read the information visible on the banking page.
show fake popup
Some extensions show fake pop-ups that look like banks and ask you to fill in details.
Sending data to third parties
Dangerous extensions can send data about your banking habits and activities to a third-party server.
Are all browser extensions dangerous?
No, not all extensions are dangerous. Many extensions are created by trusted companies and developers. The problem occurs when you install an extension from an unknown developer. More extensions than necessary are present in the browser. The extension has not been updated for a long time. Therefore, it is important that you be cautious about extensions.
How to recognize if an extension is suspicious?
Be alert if you see these signs while using your browser or banking website:
- browser suddenly slows down
- Logging out without reason
- recurring strange pop-ups
- Receiving unknown transaction alert from bank
In such a situation, check your browser extensions immediately.
How to use browser extensions safely?
- Keep only the extensions you need, remove any extensions that are not in use immediately.
- Read permissions carefully. When installing, check which permissions the extension is asking for.
- Choose a trusted developer. Be sure to check reviews, ratings and download numbers on the extension store.
- Update regularly. Old extensions may have security flaws.
How to immediately turn off dangerous browser extensions?
In Chrome browser:
- open browser
- Click on the three dots on the top right
- Go to Extensions > Manage Extensions
- Disable or remove suspicious extensions
In Firefox browser:
- open menu
- Go to Add-ons and Themes
- Remove unwanted extensions
- After this do not forget to restart the browser.
How to keep yourself safe while banking?
- Use a different browser profile for net banking
- Keep all extensions switched off while banking
- Avoid banking on public WiFi
- Be sure to keep two-factor authentication turned on.
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