Millions of Google Chrome users warned to delete 34 bank-draining apps hiding in your browser

GOOGLE Chrome users have been urged to check their browser extensions after the tech giant removed over 30 malicious apps.

These dodgy extensions had been downloaded more than 75million times before they were removed from the Chrome Web Store.

Wladimir Palant

To make sure you’re not downloading a malicious extension, check the reviews[/caption]

Late last week, Google confirmed it had weeded out 34 malicious extensions that it found to be capable of injecting ads into pages and stealing sensitive data.

But even though Google has removed them from the Chrome Store, they may still be downloaded on your browser.

The malware was first spotted by cybersecurity researcher Wladimir Palant, according to BleepingComputer, after he analysed the PDF Toolbox extension and uncovered a hidden code.

The code would activate 24 hours after the extension was installed, the report said.

With the help of researchers at Avast, 32 apps were discovered to put users at risk before Google eventually tallied the number up to 34.

However, Palant noted that this list is “unlikely to be complete,” with there being more dodgy apps lurking out there.

Some of the most popular extensions include Autoskip for YouTube which has 9million active users, Soundboost with 6.9million, and Crystal Ad block with 6.8million.

However, there was also a Zoom Plus extension that had been downloaded more than 2.3million times.

To make sure you’re not downloading a malicious extension, check the reviews.

“Many reviews for these extensions appear to be fake,” explained Palant.

“There are also just as many reviews complaining about functional issues: people notice that these extensions aren’t really being developed.”

It’s also wise to check the name for any spelling mistakes or repeated words.

A legitimate app wouldn’t spell its name or services incorrectly, or repeat words in its name.

A Google spokesperson said: “The Chrome Web Store has policies in place to keep users safe that all developers must adhere to.”

Here’s the full list:

1. Autoskip for YouTube
2. Soundboost
3. Crystal Ad block
4. Brisk VPN
5. Clipboard Helper
6. Maxi Refresher
7. Quick Translation
8. Easyview Reader view
9. PDF Toolbox
10. Epsilon Ad blocker
11. Craft Cursors
12. Alfablocker ad blocker
13. Zoom Plus
14. Base Image Downloader
15. Clickish fun cursors
16. Cursor A custom cursor
17. Amazin Dark Mode
18. Maximum Color Changer for YouTube
19. Awesome Auto Refresh
20. Venus Adblock
21. Adblock Dragon
22. Readl Reader mode
23. Volume Frenzy
24. Image download center
25. Font Customizer
26. Easy Undo Closed Tabs
27. Screence screen recorder
28. OneCleaner
29. Repeat button
30. Leap Video Downloader
31. Tap Image Downloader
32. Qspeed Video Speed Controller
33. HyperVolume
34. Light picture-in-picture

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