Bob The Cyber-Guy’s Cyber Safety Tip #128
The 3-Second Test to Spot Dangerous Browser Extensions Browser extensions can be helpful—but some exist for reasons that have nothing to do with helping you. The good news? You can spot most risky extensions in seconds using this simple 3-point test. 🚩 Red Flag #1: It Wants to Change Your Search Engine If an extension mentions: Custom search Enhanced search Switching your search provider Stop and think. Search equals advertising revenue. Many extensions exist primarily to redirect your searches—not improve your experience. 🚩 Red Flag #2: It Requests Permission to Read and Change All Your Data This permission allows the extension to: 👁️ See what you type 📖 Read what you view ✏️ Modify websites If the permission doesn’t match the purpose, don’t install it. 🚩 Red Flag #3: Unknown or Unproven Developer Before installing, check: 👤 Who created it 👥 Number of users ⭐ Reviews and complaints Trust must be earned—not assumed. 🧠 Bob’s Golden Rule Before ...