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Showing posts with label Browser Extension. Show all posts
Google Chrome security
Browser Extension Browser Vulnerability Chrome Web Store Cyber Security data security Google Google Chrome Google Chrome security

Google Chrome Users at Risk: Study Reveals Dangerous Extensions Affecting 280 Million

 

A recent study has unveiled a critical security threat impacting approximately 280 million Google Chrome users who have installed dangerous browser extensions. These extensions, often masquerading as useful tools, can lead to severe security risks such as data theft, phishing, and malware infections. 

The research highlights that many of these malicious extensions request excessive permissions, granting them access to sensitive user data, the ability to monitor online activities, and even control over browser settings. This exposure creates significant vulnerabilities, enabling cybercriminals to exploit personal information, which could result in financial losses and privacy invasions. In response, Google has been actively removing harmful extensions from the Chrome Web Store. 

However, the persistence and evolving nature of these threats underscore the importance of user vigilance. Users are urged to carefully evaluate the permissions requested by extensions and consider user ratings and comments before installation. Cybersecurity experts recommend several proactive measures to mitigate these risks. Regularly reviewing and removing suspicious or unnecessary extensions is a crucial step. Ensuring that the browser and its extensions are updated to the latest versions is also vital, as updates often include essential security patches. Employing reputable security tools can further enhance protection by detecting and preventing malicious activities associated with browser extensions. 

These tools provide real-time alerts and comprehensive security features that safeguard user data and browsing activities. This situation underscores the broader need for increased cybersecurity awareness. As cybercriminals continue to develop sophisticated methods to exploit browser vulnerabilities, both users and developers must remain alert. Developers are encouraged to prioritize security in the creation and maintenance of extensions, while users should stay informed about potential threats and adhere to best practices for safe browsing. 

The study serves as a stark reminder that while browser extensions can significantly enhance user experience and functionality, they can also introduce severe risks if not managed correctly. By adopting proactive security measures and staying informed about potential dangers, users can better protect their personal information and maintain a secure online presence. 

Ultimately, fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and responsibility is essential in today’s digital age. Users must recognize the potential threats posed by seemingly harmless extensions and take steps to safeguard their data against these ever-present risks. By doing so, they can ensure a safer and more secure browsing experience.
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
Anti Cheating Browser Extension Hackers Hacking Vulnerabilities and Exploits

A flaw in Anti Cheating Browser Extension led Hackers to Hack University Computers

 

A web security vulnerability in an anti-cheating browser extension developed a way to sneak into the machines of college students as well as other users before they could be fixed. 

Security researchers at Sector 7, the research section of Dutch security firm Computest, identified a cross-site scripting (XSS) bug in the Proctorio Google Chrome browser plugin. Proctorio is a type of proctoring software, which has come into its own during the pandemic to prevent cheating throughout online assessments. 

The technology has been widely employed in the Netherlands, much to the ire of local student organizations that have unsuccessfully challenged its use as a privacy danger. Concerns were raised because the program may read and update data on websites visited by users, as well as take screenshots and monitor webcam footage. 

“This [vulnerability] could be used by a malicious page to access data on any site where the user is currently logged in, for example, read all your email,” Sector7 told The Daily Swig. 

“And it could be used to access features like the webcam if the user has granted any website permission to use it.” 

According to a professional write-up of the flaw by Sector7, the problem came through errors in the Proctorio extension's implementation of an 'open calculator' functionality. Since the calculator is attached to the DOM of the page activating Proctorio, JavaScript on the page can immediately enter an expression for the calculator and afterward activate the evaluation, according to the researchers. 

This enables the website to run code within the content script. The page can then send messages to the background website from the scope of the content script, which is regarded as messages from the content script. Researchers discovered that they could trigger uXSS using a mixture of messages. 

Sector7 told The Daily Swig: “[The] root cause [of the vulnerability] was evaluating untrusted JavaScript originating from a webpage in the extension, leading to universal cross-site scripting.” 

Nevertheless, Proctorio has finally corrected the critical security flaw. As Chrome browser extensions are updated automatically, users do not have to actively upgrade their software to be secured. 

Sector7 reported the problem to Proctorio in June, and a week later received confirmation that it had been rectified. Sector7 verified the fix in August, well before it revealed its technical findings last week. Sector7/Computest investigated the Proctorio program at the demand of local media outlet RTL Nieuws, which afterward compiled a report on the findings.
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