'Update Your Chrome Browser Extension' Pop-Ups Distribute Shady Apps
The fraudsters are continuing to come up with new ways to trick Internet users into installing their shady applications. One of the latest scams is executed with the help of fake websites and pop-ups, which tell users that their browser extension is out-of-date. The one scheme we found focuses on Google Chrome users, but it is probably a matter of time before a similar tactic for Firefox or Microsoft Edge shows up as well.
The 'Update Your Chrome Browser Extension' pop-ups warn victims that they may be unable to continue browsing unless they download and install a browser extension update immediately. The prompt is designed to look somewhat legitimate, so some users might fall for it.
It is not clear what the 'Update Your Chrome Browser Extension' pop-ups promote, but you certainly do not want to be the one to find out. In the best-case scenario, it might turn out to be an adware or a browser hijacker that poses as a browser add-on. Worst case scenario, it might be malware that collects passwords, locks your files or spies on you. Remember never to install random apps that were brought to your attention by browser pop-ups. As for Chrome browser extensions – they are automatically updated, so you will not need to download anything. If you encounter the 'Update Your Chrome Browser Extension' pop-ups, you should ignore their contents and leave the site immediately.
