You can install extensions in browsers, such as Chrome, Firefox, or Edge. These extensions serve to better manage tabs, optimize downloads or can even be an antivirus. But of course, are they really safe? Could they spy on you? That’s just what we are going to explain. In fact, you should be very careful if you plan to install an extension. Especially if you do it outside the official app store, because you could put your security at risk.

Extensions can spy on you

Beyond whether you want to delete your browsing history, there is something fundamental that can put your privacy at risk: Chrome and Firefox extensions. There are add-ons that can be a real security problem. Hackers can sneak in modified or malicious extensions to collect information and spy on you.

Therefore, you may have some extension installed, and it is spying on you without you knowing it. Even if you want to take precautions, such as deleting your browsing history, if you have such an add-on you could be targeted by cyber criminals. In addition, they will be collecting information of all kinds. Through a fake extension, they will not only access your browsing history and everything you do online. In fact, they could also steal your credentials and passwords. For example, they could have access to your bank details when you make a payment, your username, and password when you log in to Facebook, etc. When we are going to install an extension, we are always warned that the add-ons could collect all the websites we visit. Even everything we type, so we should only install legitimate ones.

In short, browser extensions can be a real problem for your security. Don’t just take into account deleting the history and other general measures. In fact, you should also take a good look at what you have installed in your browsers and prevent them from spying on you through extensions.

How can we minimize the risk of being spied on.

Our recommendation is that you only install the extensions that are really necessary. For example, some ad blocker, the PDF reader and little else. Also, before installing an extension, you should look at the reviews in the official Firefox and Chrome add-on stores. This way, you could see if it is an extension that is working or really just there to try to scam users. There are certainly a lot of controls for uploading an extension to the official stores. However, keep in mind that it is not always possible to control all extensions that are uploaded or updated.

Tips when using browser extensions

So, what do you need to do to use browser add-ons safely? Our advice is to always download extensions from reliable sources. You can go to the Chrome or Firefox add-on store, for example. It is essential to download extensions from a legitimate and secure site, to make sure with some certainty that it does not have any malware or will spy on us. Although we must also keep in mind that 100% security does not exist, this is a maxim in the world of computer security.

Avoid downloading software from third party sites. In fact, it is likely that they have been modified. Cybercriminals often take legitimate software and then make modifications in order to infect computers or mobile devices. In addition, you should check very carefully what you are installing. We urge you not to install the first extension that pops up in the search engine, you should do your research. You can check reviews and ratings from other users. This will help you to know if you are installing something safe or, on the contrary, could be a risk to your security. You should not install an add-on that has bad ratings, for example.

On the other hand, it is key to keep them updated. An extension may be secure today. However, maybe in a while it will have some vulnerability that a cybercriminal can exploit. Updating it may allow you to correct these flaws. In addition to avoid being spied on or having your privacy compromised in any way. Another factor to keep in mind is to protect your device properly. Avoid using your computer without antivirus. D as this can allow malware to enter through browser extensions. A good security program can be helpful to be more protected.

Some final recommendations.

As you can see, extensions can be used by hackers to spy on you through your browser. It is key that you take action. For example, you should only install add-ons that you see as reliable and that really contribute something positive. You can always protect your browser bookmarks to avoid intruders.

Another very important recommendation is not to use too many extensions in your web browser. In fact, every extension you install will slow down your browser a bit. Moreover, it will make it consume more resources (especially RAM memory). Install only the extensions you need, and no more. You may at some point install a new extension. Then, later, you realize that you don’t use it. Consequently, the best thing to do is to uninstall it so that it stops consuming resources for no reason.

Conclusions

Extensions for web browsers such as Chrome or Firefox are really useful. However, we must pay close attention to how many extensions we install and also where we install them from. It is essential that we only install the ones we really need. In addition to uninstalling the extensions that we are not using in order not to slow down the web browser too much. In this way we avoid that the consumption of resources such as RAM does not skyrocket.

Regarding where to download them, always do it from official browser stores. Surely these have had to go through different revisions to be available for download. Unlike third-party websites where the level of review is probably clearly lower.

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Maximizes the video (but not completely): YouTube Windows Fullscreen.

When viewing videos, I like to maximize them to take advantage of all the space my monitor provides. However, at the same time, when browsing, I like to keep the taskbar and the browser toolbar in view. Quite a problem, isn’t it. Don’t worry, I have found the solution. Maximize videos… within the scope of the window reserved for the web page.

On the other hand, if your favorite video portal is YouTube, you’re in luck: YouTube Windows Fullscreen (Chrome / Firefox) allows you to do exactly that.

Avoid tracking by large social networks: LibRedirect

Is it possible to open a Twitter or YouTube link, without having to open a Twitter or YouTube link? In short, that’s what the LibRedirect extension does. We are talking about an open source project that redirects all requests from platforms such as YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, Reddit, Imgur, etc., to more privacy-friendly ‘alternative interfaces’. That is, they allow access to any link without the need to have an account or log in to any of these sites. Undoubtedly, one of the best browser extensions of this 2022.

Take notes: WebStickies

WebStickies is an extension as simple as useful, it allows us to attach post-it notes to web pages and review them (they are saved locally in each browser) every time we access again to the web where we took them. We can also access from a list (exportable and categorizable) of notes linked to different websites. The notes can be placed floating or in a fixed position.

An excellent option to synthesize the content of our online readings, or to provide them with context.

Forget about cookie warnings: I Don’t Care About Cookies

I Don’t Care About Cookies is an extension owned by Avast, which has millions of users around the world. Its function? Simply to hide the ubiquitous cookie acceptance notices from the user. In some cases accepting all of them and in others only the most necessary categories. One of the best browser extensions of this year.

Copia texto de imágenes, vídeos, PDFs, etc.: BlackBox.

Sometimes we want to be able to copy any text that appears in your browser. However, sometimes it is in a format that is not copy and paste friendly (such as images and videos). In such a case, the solution is to resort to BlackBox (Chrome / Firefox). In fact, you can copy the text as if you were taking a screenshot.

Check tab count: TabCount

Sometimes, you get caught up in opening tabs and tabs. In addition, you end up making a mess without knowing what you have open and what not. Additionally, you end up consuming RAM memory like there is no tomorrow. And RAM is not free. Fortunately, a veteran extension comes to our rescue: TabCount.

This is a very simple utility for Chromium browsers that reminds me in all Microsoft Edge windows the tabs I have opened. So, when I go over 20, I know that I must close them for order and computer hygiene.

Forced dark mode: Dark Reader

Many people spend a minimum of 8 hours sitting in front of a screen. Consequently, taking care of your eyesight is very important. And for that I have discovered this year a very useful extension called Dark Reader. Indeed, it transforms the appearance of all websites in a dark mode.

This extension allows you to add exceptions for websites that you do not want to alter. You can even add a time slot in which you want all websites to go into dark mode.

Remote co-viewing: Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party)

It may seem a bit silly. However, sometimes you want to watch a series or movie with a friend or your partner, and you don’t meet in the same place. Then r this extension comes to solve your problems. And is that it is responsible for creating a private room in which any of the people who are inside can control the playback of content. As a result, you will be able to watch your favorite series and movies at the same time.

The extension used to work only with Netflix. However, over time it has added support for HBO Max, Disney+, Prime Video, YouTube and Hulu. It was very popular during the period of confinement in Pandemic. In fact, the feature was eventually included as standard on services such as Disney+ or Prime Video.

Improve your productivity: Tango

An application that automatically generates a handy guide when you record yourself performing a task. Just run through any process as you normally would. Tango then automatically converts those steps into a handy guide that you can share with others to show how it’s done.

Take advantage of mouse gestures: CrXMouse Chrome Gestures.

Create customized mouse navigation shortcuts. With this you will be able to increase your navigation productivity thanks to mouse navigation shortcuts: simple mouse gestures, overdraw, wheel gestures.

Improve mathematical literacy: Equatio.

This is a digital mathematical assistant. It is also the first option, which allows you to digitize mathematics. In addition, it helps teachers and students of all levels to create mathematical expressions quickly and easily.

Equatio instantly converts what you type into formulas that are displayed on the screen. For example, when you type sc, the application already knows that you mean square root.

Okay, so much for this countdown of the best browser extensions for 2022. I hope you find one that works for you. If you think any of them are missing, feel free to let me know in the comments section. See you later and happy new year 2023. Bye!

The post The best browser extensions that I loved this 2022: add to your Chrome, Firefox, or Edge appeared first on Linux Windows and android Tutorials.

Why protect your browser

Cyberattacks can affect many of the programs we use daily. But the browser is undoubtedly one of the most affected. After all, it is the one we use to surf the web, open web pages, log in to social networks and forums. When surfing the Internet, we can make mistakes. For example, clicking on a link that takes us to a malicious site and starts downloading a file that is actually malware. You may also mistakenly install a supposed Chrome or Firefox update, and it is actually a virus.

It is therefore significant to always protect the browser. Occasionally, it is not enough just to have an antivirus installed on the system, such as Windows. It is necessary to take certain extra precautions, and that is where browser security extensions come into play. Consequently, you can install an antivirus for Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or whatever browser you use.

This will give you that extra security. It allows you to reduce the risk of suffering computer attacks that endanger your privacy when browsing. It is something that will undoubtedly come in handy to improve protection and solve possible problems when surfing the net.

Best Antivirus extensions for Chrome

These antivirus for the browser can be found for the main programs and one of them is the case of Chrome. They are extensions that you install and run whenever you open the browser. They will be there acting in the background, analyzing the pages you visit, warning you if you download any potentially dangerous files, and so on. There are many options, as you will see.

WebDefender

WebDefender has been created with the objective of keeping the browser free of viruses, malware and always keeping personal information protected. In addition, it alerts in case there is any type of data leakage. Moreover, it is activated when entering a page that can be cataloged as dangerous and contain malicious software.

You can download it from the Chrome store. It is easy to use, since you only have to install it, and it will automatically start analyzing your browsing to alert you of possible problems.

Virus Checker

One of the most important security risks when using the browser is when downloading a file from the Internet. That’s where we can encounter malware that can put our computer at risk. What Virus Checker does is to check all the files we download from Chrome and analyze if it contains malware or if it is something reliable.

It is based on data obtained from a database of more than 60 antivirus programs. Moreover, it does not require any kind of configuration. In fact, once you download and install it, it will work automatically. It is based on data obtained from a database of more than 60 antivirus programs. Moreover, it does not require any kind of configuration. In fact, once you download and install it, it will work automatically. It will take care of analyzing everything you download and will issue a warning if it detects that something is wrong.

VT4Browser

A very interesting add-on is VT4Browser. It belongs to the popular VirusTotal. It is responsible for analyzing the links received by the browser, files, and documents that may be dangerous. Furthermore, It uses an updated database where they compare those files to see if they can contain any threat. It is very useful to download a file from the Internet, and we do not know whether it is really reliable or not. Simply with VT4Browser we can give it to analyze, and it will show us if it is a security problem, or we can trust and download it without problems.

Security add-ons for Firefox

In the Firefox browser, you will also be able to install some security add-ons to protect yourself when surfing the web. We will list some of the most popular and useful ones. In this way, you will be able to avoid attacks and avoid falling into the trap of a phishing website that steals data.

Web Threat Shield

An interesting extension that you can use in Firefox is Web Threat Shield. It helps you avoid cyberattacks when surfing the web. It detects sites that may be dangerous and blocks them so that you don’t fall into the trap when entering personal data or downloading a file.

On the other hand, it is a complement to traditional antivirus. You will be able to download this extension from the official Firefox store. It will immediately start protecting your browsing. It works simply and automatically. As soon as it detects a dangerous site, it blocks it automatically.

Avira Browser Safety

An antivirus that you can install as an extension in Firefox is Avira Browser Safety. It is responsible for blocking websites that can be a danger, as well as Phishing attacks that can aim to steal your passwords. In addition, it can scan files that you download from the network.

This antivirus can be downloaded from the Firefox store. It is very fascinating to avoid tracking and improve privacy on the Internet. It works in a simple way, and you can combine it with other security programs that you install on your system. You will be able to shop online with greater security, log in, visit web pages.

AVG Online Security

One more option you have available to protect Firefox with an extension is AVG Online Security. It is responsible for collecting information from websites that are Phishing and warns us as soon as we visit one. In this way it protects us from what is one of the most important security threats on the network.

It will launch a warning every time we visit a web page with a bad reputation. It has a database where it stores this type of data to be able to detect irregularities and take measures to prevent the theft of information and passwords when browsing. You can download it from the Firefox store. Ultimately, we have seen the Best antivirus browser extensions. Bye!

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Ninja Cookie

Ah! Cookies, those infamous old acquaintances. You’re probably familiar with and even sick of those cookie warnings. Well, if you want to get rid of them for good, then this extension is for you. Ninja Cookie does its job excellently. And it’s available for all major browsers, including Safari.

Sci-Hub X Now!

This extension is the perfect complement to have access to Sci-Hub. This site presents a revolutionary task. Indeed, it aims to democratize access to millions of scientific articles. These articles are usually limited to those who pay. On the contrary, here you will find them for free.

• Sci-Hub X Now! For Chrome.
• Sci-Hub X Now! For Firefox.
• Sci-Hub X Now! For Edge.

Save image as Type

With this extension for Chrome and Edge you can save images from any website by automatically converting them to JPG, PNG or WebP. In fact, its name is quite obvious, and that is precisely its main function: to save images from the Internet in the format we want, and not only in the one in which they were uploaded.

Quickey Launcher

The favorites are very useful elements for navigation. But you may want to try a different approach. Through Quickey Launcher we will use the quick access through a simple key. If you use it, it will change your navigation style forever. In short, what it does is a launcher for Chrome’s new tab page that lets you launch any website with keyboard shortcuts. We can even assign a website to each letter of your keyboard to launch quickly.

Clipt

Clipt is a cross-platform clipboard that easily connects your computer to your mobile and vice versa. It is an application created by OneLab, the group behind the development of the mobile device manufacturer OnePlus. Consequently, you need the Android app on your mobile and the Chrome extension. Clipt uses Google account and Google Drive storage to work.

UBlacklist

This is a very fascinating extension. In effect, it allows you to block any site from your Google results. Let’s suppose you want to avoid seeing some websites appear in your search results anymore. Then with this extension you can block them in just a couple of clicks.

• Chrome
• Firefox
• Safari

Modern for Wikipedia

This is a very curious extension. In fact, it allows you to redesign Wikipedia to your liking. Basically, what it does is to offer you different color themes, font types of different sizes, and interface styles. Moreover, you can combine them as you like. In short, you can give Wikipedia a more original and modern touch.

LanguageTool

This is one of the best Chrome extensions for students. It is certainly more than just a spell checker. In fact, it corrects all kinds of errors that go beyond spelling, such as grammar and style problems. It is also available in multiple languages.

• Install LanguageTool for Chrome
• Install LanguageTool for Firefox
• Install LanguageTool for Edge
• Install LanguageTool for Safari

Noisli

We won’t lie, this is a simple extension for Google Chrome. However, it’s almost addictive to use. What it actually does is to offer a list of relaxing background sounds that can help you keep your concentration. It also integrates a timer. This way, the music starts and stops according to our study schedule. It even has a minimalistic text editor, so you can write without distractions. One of the most curious extensions for web browsers.

Screencastify

This is an excellent tool to capture in video everything that happens on our screen or in a specific Chrome tab. We can even accompany the recording of our comments by microphone. It is also possible to capture a thumbnail image of our webcam and text. Finally, we can also add images that we add to the video once recorded.

Okay, so ultimately we have seen the best extensions for web browsers in 2021. They are undoubtedly elements that perfect the web browsing experience. Besides, in this selection there is a little of everything. So, all you have to do is select the one that best suits your needs. Bye!

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