Browser Extensions Are Selling Your User Data
A new report reveals that dozens of widely used browser extensions are selling user data, such as browsing history and personal information, to third parties. This practice is legally disclosed in the extensions' privacy policies.
Event Summary
According to a report published by Infosecurity Magazine on April 28, 2026, dozens of widely used browser extensions are actively collecting user data and selling it to third-party companies. This is not the result of a cyberattack; on the contrary, the data selling practice is included as a legal clause in the privacy policies of many extensions. By accepting these policies, often without reading them, users are inadvertently giving consent for their data to be sold.
Types of Data Being Sold
Browser extensions can access a wide variety of data depending on their function. The report indicates that the data being sold typically includes:
- Browsing History: A list of all the websites you visit.
- Search Queries: The searches you perform on search engines.
- Location Information: The geographical location of your device.
- Device Information: Your browser type, operating system, and other technical details.
- Form Data: In some cases, information you enter into forms on websites.
Although this data is often sold as "anonymized," it can be possible to de-anonymize individuals by combining different datasets.
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Check Now →What Should Users Do?
To protect your digital privacy, it is recommended to take the following steps:
- Review Your Extensions: Check all the extensions installed on your browser and remove any that you no longer use or trust.
- Read Privacy Policies: Before installing a new extension, carefully read its privacy policy to understand how your data will be used.
- Choose Reputable Developers: Only use extensions from well-known and trusted developers.
- Limit Permissions: Ensure that extensions operate with only the minimum necessary permissions.
You can use a Data Breach Search tool to check if your personal data has been compromised in past incidents. Additionally, it is important to follow the latest Data Breach News to stay informed about developments in the world of cybersecurity.
Source
https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/browser-extensions-sell-user-data/