Here Are 16 Browser Extensions Hackers Use to Steal Data from Pakistanis

The National Telecom and Information Technology Security Board has issued a cybersecurity advisory warning individuals in Pakistan about the growing threat posed by hackers targeting users of popular browser extensions like ChatGPT-4, Gemini for Chrome, and other similar tools. The main objective behind these attacks is to gain unauthorized access to private data belonging to Pakistani citizens.

According to this advisory, users are urged to be extra cautious as cybercriminals have been employing deceptive techniques with the intention of injecting malicious code into virtual private networks (VPNs) and artificial intelligence systems. It highlights that individuals who rely on VPNs or utilize AI technology should remain particularly vigilant against these emerging threats.

In summary:

1. Targeted Extensions: Users must stay informed about potential risks associated with widely-used browser extensions such as ChatGPT-4 and Gemini for Chrome.
2. Data Breach Concerns: Hackers aim at illegally accessing personal information held by Pakistani citizens through their use of vulnerable browser extensions.
3. Deceptive Methods Used: Cybercriminals employ cunning tactics designed specifically to inject harmful code into both VPN services and AI systems.
4. Heightened Vigilance Needed: Individuals relying on VPN connections or utilizing AI technologies need heightened awareness regarding possible security breaches.

Stay aware, take necessary precautions when using impactful web applications/extensions!

The advisory reveals that harmful code is distributed through phishing methods to exploit certain publishers of legitimate extensions. The main objective behind these attacks is to steal users’ personally identifiable information (PII) via the compromised extensions. It has been reported that around 16 widely-used extensions, including VPNs and AI ChatBots, have fallen victim to this compromise.

By streamlining the content and removing unnecessary verbiage, we can improve engagement and readability while maintaining clarity in conveying important details about the issue at hand.

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The advisory provides several recommendations to enhance your online security and protect against potential risks. Here are the key suggestions:

1. Choose reputable alternatives: Instead of using the mentioned extensions, temporarily opt for trusted alternatives that have a proven track record in terms of reliability and security.
2. Install only trusted extensions: When installing any extension on your device, make sure it comes from a reliable source or verified developer. This will help minimize the risk of downloading malicious software onto your system.
3. Review permissions and ratings: Before installing an extension, take some time to read through its permissions carefully as well as check its ratings from other users’ experiences with it. This step allows you to assess whether granting those specific permissions is necessary for the functionality you require.
4. Limit granted permissions: Whenever possible, limit the number of permission requests made by installed extensions on your browser or device settings menu itself—granting access only when essential functionalities depend on them helps reduce vulnerabilities.

5Update regularly: Keep all installed extensions up-to-date by applying their latest updates promptly; this ensures they receive important security patches and bug fixes released by developers over time.

6. Remove unused/extensions Regularly review all existing extensions running within your system environment. Remove any unnecessary ones immediately—as each unneeded extension poses