Is Your Google Chrome Adequately Protected? Common Chrome Malware Types

Did you know that two-thirds of all online users access the Net using Google Chrome? This vast market share means that over two billion users trust the browser. So, how safe is it, or does its huge user following make it any safer than its competitors such as Mozilla Firefox? It doesn’t because hackers target hubs where they can get the most users. Therefore, this browser is every hacker’s favourite target for malware.

This Malware Deletes Your Chrome Browser and Replaces It With a ...

Taken from Fossbytes.com

The threats are so real that Google itself found that 10% of submissions on its Chrome Store contained Chrome malware. This threat forced Google two years ago to improve its safety.

Early this year, Cisco Systems’ Duo Security uncovered a dangerous onslaught that stole sensitive information from some 1.7 million people. The search giant investigated the matter and proved it to be accurate by discovering 500 malicious extension threats on its browser. Therefore, this post shows you the common threats you face on this browser and how best to protect yourself.

Leading Forms of Chrome Malware

Here are the leading forms of Chrome attacks you can find on your desktop hardware or mobile device.

Malware Extensions

Since Chrome is a browser, you should expect the most common forms of malware there to be malicious extensions. Hackers entice users with all types of tantalizing extensions to do specific tasks. They usually promise that those extensions give users the best out of Chrome. Unknowingly, they add them only to fall prey to spyware. These programs monitor user activities and steal personal data such as passwords they use on the browser.

Botware

Although bots have their beneficial purposes, hackers can also abuse them to endanger your online safety on Chrome. For example, they create malicious bots for sending spam adverts on websites, also known as spambots. These bots disguise themselves and hide in harmless-looking adverts people easily click on.

Adware

Adware is a form of malware that disguises itself as adverts. It can manifest itself in the form of popup ads on sites. Most of those adverts usually entice users with promises for “free versions” of popular products people use frequently. However, many of them usually have viruses loaded to achieve various malicious goals. For example, this class of adware can track user activities and steal their sensitive personal data. Greedy advertisers create some of the adware you may find on Chrome to generate quick and easy income.

Spy Apps

Spyware is a form of malware that spies on your online activities secretly. For example, it monitors your activities, collects your crucial financial details, steals your keystrokes, and collects your access codes. Also, some spyware can modify your computer’s safety settings and browsers to disrupt your network connections. Hackers spread adware by exploiting weaknesses in your system, including Chrome, Trojans, and bundling with genuine programs.

Taking to Lead Against Chrome Malware

So, is all hope lost for Chrome users? Definitely, not. You can take the lead against Chrome malware and enjoy using your browser safely. Here are ways in which you can take the battle to the hackers’ doorsteps and win.

  • To beat the hackers in their malicious game, ensure that an extension doesn’t ask for any suspicious permission before they can function.
  • Also, keep reviewing your Chrome extensions and uninstall those you don’t need or use at the moment.
  • You need to install and run anti-malware apps and set up firewall software. However, ensure that the app you buy can detect, quarantine, and remove different malware such as adware, viruses, and Trojans.
  • As an extra protection layer, you have to combine anti-malware software and a firewall to guarantee that all new and current data are scanned to detect and remove all hidden malware they could be carrying.
  • Update all your apps and operating systems to make them deal with the latest security threats, so hackers don’t take advantage of their redundancy.
  • Be careful so that you don’t download any strange file, attachment, or program or those from doubtful sources.

Chrome is a popular and great browser, but vicious hackers can still exploit its shortcomings. However, you can beat them in their dirty game by implementing the insights we shared. Act today and boost your Chrome’s safety.

Aoron Kimmel
Aoron Kimmel
Software Engineer, A creative mind.

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