Browser extensions are everywhere.
They block ads, save time, manage passwords, customize websites, and make browsers more comfortable to use.
But every extension you install becomes part of your browser — and part of your security.
If you haven’t already thought about it, remember that the browser itself plays a central role in online safety. You can read more about this in
Why browsers are the weakest point in user security.
Choosing extensions carefully makes a big difference — especially because extensions can add up and create hidden risks over time.
First rule: fewer extensions is safer
The safest extension is the one you don’t install.
Every extension:
- adds new code to your browser
- requests permissions
- increases complexity
That’s similar to the idea discussed in
The hidden risks of over-extended browsers: when the browser does too much, risk increases quietly and invisibly.
Before installing anything, ask yourself:
Do I really need this?
If an extension solves a problem you face once a year, it probably doesn’t belong in your browser.
A small, intentional set of extensions is always safer than a long list of “just in case” tools.
Look at permissions before features
Most people look at what an extension does. Few look at what it’s allowed to access.
Permissions matter more than features.
Be cautious if an extension asks to:
- read and change data on all websites
- access everything you type
- run on every page you visit
Why? Because permissions expand what an extension can do, and more access means more ways an attacker or exploit might misuse it. That’s part of the same idea behind how extensions can expand attack surfaces, as explained in
How browser extensions silently expand attack surfaces.
Sometimes broad access is necessary — but often it’s not.
If permissions feel excessive for the feature offered, that’s a warning sign.
Prefer well-known, actively maintained extensions
Popularity alone doesn’t guarantee safety — but it helps.
Safer extensions usually:
- have many users
- receive regular updates
- show recent version history
- have clear descriptions and documentation
An extension that hasn’t been updated in years is risky, even if it once worked well.
Outdated code is easier to exploit, and because browser extensions operate inside your browser, old vulnerabilities can quietly persist.
Be careful with “all-in-one” extensions
Extensions that promise to do everything are convenient — and risky.
All-in-one tools often require:
- wide permissions
- constant background activity
- access across many websites
This makes them powerful — but also dangerous if something goes wrong.
Whenever possible, choose simple extensions that do one job well.
Reviews matter — but read them carefully
Reviews can help, but they’re not perfect.
Pay attention to:
- recent reviews, not old ones
- repeated complaints about privacy or tracking
- sudden rating drops after updates
Ignore reviews that only say:
“Works great!”
Look for comments that mention behavior, permissions, or changes over time.
Understand who is behind the extension
Whenever possible, check:
- who developed the extension
- whether they have a website
- whether they explain how data is handled
Anonymous or unclear developers aren’t automatically bad — but lack of transparency increases risk.
If you can’t tell who made the extension or why they need your data, think twice.
Updates can change everything
Extensions update automatically.
That’s convenient — but also risky.
An update can:
- add new permissions
- change how data is handled
- introduce tracking or ads
After major updates, it’s a good habit to:
- quickly review permissions
- skim recent reviews
- remove extensions that changed too much
If an extension no longer matches your expectations, uninstall it.
Remove extensions you no longer use
Many security issues come from forgotten extensions.
If you don’t actively use an extension:
- remove it
- don’t “keep it just in case”
Unused extensions still have permissions.
They still update.
They still increase risk.
Cleaning up extensions regularly is one of the simplest security improvements you can make.
Use browser defaults when possible
Modern browsers already include:
- password managers
- basic privacy controls
- security protections
Before installing an extension, check if your browser already solves the problem.
Built-in features are usually better integrated and easier to maintain securely.
Trust your discomfort
You don’t need to be a security expert.
If something feels off:
- unclear permissions
- vague descriptions
- sudden behavior changes
That feeling is often worth listening to.
Good tools don’t make users uncomfortable or confused.
A simple takeaway
Browser extensions aren’t dangerous by default.
But they deserve more attention than most users give them.
Choosing extensions safely means:
- installing fewer
- checking permissions
- preferring simple, maintained tools
- removing what you don’t need
Your browser is already a sensitive part of your digital life.
Being selective about extensions is one of the easiest ways to protect it — without giving up convenience.