Updated 20 August 2026.
The Hacker News has published many articles over the past year warning of compromised Web Browser Addons and Extensions.
Their most recent articles warn of compromised Addons and Extensions for the:
- Google Chrome, and
- Mozilla Firefox
web browsers.
Recent The Hacker News articles
Google Chrome Browser Addons and Extensions
August 2026.
737 Chrome VPN extensions caught routing traffic through proxies
June 2026.
152 Chrome Wallpaper extensions with installs linked to adware and fake traffic
April 2026.
More dodgy Google Chrome browser extensions
March 2026.
Two more dodgy Google Chrome browser extensions
February 2026.
Another Malicious Google Chrome extension is discovered
January 2026.
Malware found in more Google Chrome extensions
Malware found in 5 more Google Chrome extensions
December 2025.
Featured Chrome browser extension caught intercepting millions of users' AI chats
Mozilla Firefox Browser Addons and Extensions
August 2026.
40 malicious Firefox Extensions pose as Web3 Products to steal wallet secrets
December 2025.
How should you respond?
Keep your use of web browser Addons and Extensions to the absolute minimum.
And look out for suspicious behaviour in your web browser.
If an Addon or Extension you installed some time ago suddenly starts to behave differently (example, unexpected pop-ups, performance issues) then consider that it may have received a malicious update.
Suspect foul play?
Uninstall the Addon or Extension.
Never assume that "Featured" badge in an online marketplace and millions of existing users means an Addon or Extension will not pose a risk at some future date.
Keep yourself informed
Keep up to speed with the latest security threats affecting your Operating System, Web Browser and as a result, your Website.
About The Hacker News
"The Hacker News (THN) stands as a top and reliable source for the latest updates in cybersecurity. As an independent outlet, we offer balanced and thorough insights into the cybersecurity sector, trusted by professionals and enthusiasts alike."
Subscribe to The Hacker News newsletter when you visit the following link.
And keep up to speed with the latest security threats affecting your Operating System, Web Browser and Website.
Make Joomla! CMS Security your #1 Priority
We help and support managers responsible for Joomla! CMS websites in UK business and third sector organisations across Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside and North West England.
Your personal data is nobody's business.