What is a malicious add-on?

A malicious add-on refers to a browser extension or plug-in that has been created or modified to contain harmful software, often termed malware. These add-ons can be designed to compromise the security and privacy of users by collecting personal data, injecting ads, or executing other harmful actions without the user's consent. Malicious add-ons can compromise the integrity of the browser and the overall system by leveraging the privileges granted to them when installed.

Understanding the nature of malicious add-ons emphasizes the importance of exercising caution when installing browser extensions. Users should only download add-ons from reputable sources and be aware of the permissions that these add-ons request during installation. In contrast, beneficial extensions aim to enhance functionality, security features are designed to protect users, and unrelated web applications do not pertain specifically to the context of browser add-ons.