Think Twice Before Installing That Chrome Extension: 131 Malicious Clones Hijack WhatsApp
Browser extensions are supposed to make life easier — but sometimes they make it a lot riskier. Cybersecurity researchers have uncovered a coordinated campaign leveraging 131 rebranded clones of a WhatsApp Web automation extension for Google Chrome. The attackers’ goal was simple: spam at scale. By hijacking these extensions, they were able to blast outbound WhatsApp messages in a way that bypassed the platform’s built‑in rate limits and anti‑spam controls.
Why Extensions Are a Prime Attack Vector
This isn’t the first time malicious extensions have slipped past defenses. In fact, millions of Chrome users have been put at risk in recent years by extensions that looked legitimate but were quietly siphoning data or hijacking sessions.
The problem is structural: many extensions are built by solo developers or small companies, making it harder to verify legitimacy. Just like plug‑ins for other platforms (yes, WordPress, I’m looking at you 👀), the ecosystem is fertile ground for attackers to slip in malicious code.
And here’s the kicker: even good extensions can go bad. A developer might sell their extension to a shady buyer, or an update could quietly add malicious functionality. That’s why it’s critical to periodically audit what’s installed in your browser.
How to Stay Safe from Malicious Extensions
Be Selective and Minimalist Only install what you truly need. The fewer extensions you have, the smaller your attack surface. Regularly audit your extensions (chrome://extensions) and uninstall anything you no longer use.
Vet Extensions Before Installing Check the developer’s legitimacy, read reviews, look at update history, and stick to the official Chrome Web Store.
Scrutinize Permissions Closely Match permissions to function. If a simple calculator extension asks to “read your browsing history,” that’s a red flag.
Use Chrome’s Built‑in Security Enable Enhanced Safe Browsing (Settings > Privacy and security > Security > Enhanced protection). This helps protect against dangerous sites, downloads, and extensions — even new ones Google hasn’t flagged yet.
Ongoing Monitoring Watch for suspicious behavior: new ads appearing where they shouldn’t, your homepage or search engine changing, or unexpected redirects.
The Bigger Picture
This campaign is a reminder that extensions are software — and software can create risk. Treat them with the same caution you would any third‑party application. Attackers know that browser extensions are often overlooked, which makes them a perfect backdoor into your digital life.
Final Thought
Think twice before clicking “Add to Chrome.” Extensions can be powerful tools, but they can also be ticking time bombs. The difference comes down to vigilance, auditing, and a healthy dose of skepticism.
👉 At Actionable Security, our vCISO advisory helps businesses stay one step ahead of threats like this. From spotting risky extensions to building smarter security policies, we give you the insights and strategy to reduce risk before it becomes a breach.
#ExtensionTension #ChromeChaos #WhatsAppSpamClub
