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How to Remove Malicious Extensions from Chrome
5 min. read
Updated onNovember 28, 2023
updated onNovember 28, 2023
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If you use the Google Chrome browser a lot, you may have encountered some malicious extensions and wondered how to remove them.
Chrome is a popular browser that has millions of extensions available for download. Some extensions are legitimate and valuable, but others may be malicious.
Malicious browser extensions are usually created by cybercriminals who want to steal your data or use your computer for other illegal activities. These extensions can be installed on your browser without your knowledge, and they can do a lot of damage to your PC.
You may start experiencing problems with your Internet connection or even instability in your system. The most common malicious browser extensions are fake antivirus software or other security programs.
These programs will usually tell you that your computer is infected with viruses and offer to scan it for free. You may also be redirected to phishing sites or malware downloads without your knowledge.
Although Chrome has abuilt-in antivirus security featurethat can prevent malicious extensions from running on your computer, sometimes it’s not enough.
What is a malicious extension in Chrome?
A malicious browser extension in Chrome is an add-on that changes your browser’s settings or displays ads on websites you visit. It may also install additional software onto your device. They are a type of malicious software that is installed on the user’s computer without their knowledge.
You can easily spot a majority of the malicious extensions, but some of the signs to look out for include:
How can I remove malicious extensions from Chrome?
1. Install a Chrome extension to detect malicious code
Guardio is a browser extension that works inside Google Chrome. Its real power comes from its ability to detect malicious code even before it is installed on your computer.
It works in real-time to identify the risk of any link you click on the web. The best part is that Guardio doesn’t require any installation or configuration on your part — just open the Chrome Web Store and install it in seconds to protect yourself against phishing attacks immediately!
⇒Get Guardio
2. Use the Remove option
3. Reset Chrome
You can also uninstall and reinstall the Chrome browser to eliminate any malicious extensions.
How to remove pop-up ads on Windows 10 desktop?
The appearance of ads on the desktop can be very annoying, especially when working with important documents or browsing the Internet for something important.
To remove them, follow the steps below:
How do I scan Chrome extensions for malware?
One of the most common ways for hackers to gain access to your computer is through malicious browser extensions.
The best way to protect yourself from these threats is touse a good antivirus programon your computer and run regular scans or installdedicated Chrome antivirus extensionsto protect your browser.
How to stop pop-up ads in Chrome?
To stop pop-up ads on your Chrome desktop browser, follow the steps below:
How to stop ads in Google Chrome on your Android device?
To stop ads in the Chrome browser on your smartphone, follow the steps below:
We hope that from this guide, you have been able to remove those annoying Chrome extensions that could potentially put your PC at risk.
Should you encounter any other issues, such asChrome running slow, be sure to refer to our expert guide for a quick fix.
Clearing the browser cache and disabling unwanted extensions can help you fix issues likeerror code 403, while visiting websites like Fox Sports.
As always, we love your feedback, and this time, we would like to know whether you have encountered a malicious extension before and what action you took to secure your PC. Let us know in the comment section below.
More about the topics:Chrome
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.
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Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.
