That Extension Might Be Spying on You: The Hidden Risk in Your Browser

Browser extensions are helpful little tools—until they're not. Many people install extensions to block ads, save passwords, or streamline online tasks. But few realize that some of these tools quietly collect your personal data,

Browser extensions are helpful little tools—until they're not. Many people install extensions to block ads, save passwords, or streamline online tasks. But few realize that some of these tools quietly collect your personal data, monitor browsing habits, and in some cases, even steal sensitive information.

Just recently, several popular Chrome extensions were found harvesting user data without consent. These weren’t shady back-alley tools—they were widely used, highly rated, and available right in the Chrome Web Store.

The problem? Browser extensions often require access to "read and change all your data on the websites you visit." That’s like giving a stranger full access to your digital life—emails, bank accounts, shopping carts, private messages—you name it.

🔒 What You Can Do:

  • Review your extensions today. Remove any you don't actively use.

  • Check the permissions each extension requires.

  • Avoid installing extensions that request excessive access.

  • Use a reputable cybersecurity service to review your digital footprint.

At Valethorn, our clients receive regular device audits—browser extensions included. We remove risky tools, suggest trusted alternatives, and provide hands-on support so you’re never left guessing.

More articles

We share our stories, ideas and solutions with the whole wide world. There's no holding back.

Managing Your Account Recovery Options—Before It’s Too Late

Imagine losing access to your primary email account and realizing that every recovery option—phone number, backup email, security questions—is outdated or insecure. It’s more common than you think.

Managing Your Account Recovery Options—Before It’s Too Late

Imagine losing access to your primary email account and realizing that every recovery option—phone number, backup email, security questions—is outdated or insecure. It’s more common than you think.

Managing Your Account Recovery Options—Before It’s Too Late

Imagine losing access to your primary email account and realizing that every recovery option—phone number, backup email, security questions—is outdated or insecure. It’s more common than you think.

Think You’re Too Small to Be Hacked? So Did Everyone Else

There’s a myth that only big corporations or government agencies are targeted by cyberattacks. But in truth, cybercriminals love going after individuals and small businesses—because they know you’re often unprotected and unaware.

Think You’re Too Small to Be Hacked? So Did Everyone Else

There’s a myth that only big corporations or government agencies are targeted by cyberattacks. But in truth, cybercriminals love going after individuals and small businesses—because they know you’re often unprotected and unaware.

Think You’re Too Small to Be Hacked? So Did Everyone Else

There’s a myth that only big corporations or government agencies are targeted by cyberattacks. But in truth, cybercriminals love going after individuals and small businesses—because they know you’re often unprotected and unaware.

How Cybercriminals Exploit Human Emotions—And What You Can Do About It

Cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls and antivirus software—it’s about people. The most advanced security system in the world can be bypassed with a single click on a fake email, and cybercriminals know exactly how to make you click.

How Cybercriminals Exploit Human Emotions—And What You Can Do About It

Cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls and antivirus software—it’s about people. The most advanced security system in the world can be bypassed with a single click on a fake email, and cybercriminals know exactly how to make you click.

How Cybercriminals Exploit Human Emotions—And What You Can Do About It

Cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls and antivirus software—it’s about people. The most advanced security system in the world can be bypassed with a single click on a fake email, and cybercriminals know exactly how to make you click.


Cybersecurity you can count on. Privacy you can trust.


Newsletter

Stay updated with security tips —
Subscribe to our newsletter

Contact Us Directly

Email: Concierge@Valethorn.com
Phone: (888) 601-4669
Hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm CST
Location: Based in Helena, AL -
working with client nationwide


2025 Valethorn Cybersecurity LLC. — Elite Personal Protection.


Cybersecurity you can count on. Privacy you can trust.


Newsletter

Stay updated with security tips —
Subscribe to our newsletter

Contact Us Directly

Email: Concierge@Valethorn.com
Phone: (888) 601-4669
Hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm CST
Location: Based in Helena, AL -
working with clients nationwide


2025 Valethorn Cybersecurity LLC. — Elite Personal Protection.


Cybersecurity you can count on. Privacy you can trust.


Newsletter

Stay updated with security tips —
Subscribe to our newsletter

Contact Us Directly

Email: Concierge@Valethorn.com
Phone: (888) 601-4669
Hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm CST
Location: Based in Helena, AL -
working with clients nationwide


2025 Valethorn Cybersecurity LLC.
Elite Personal Protection.