Browser extensions unquestionably improve the user’s surfing experience and provide users with freedom and control over the online content they examine. These browser extensions, or add-ons, as they are sometimes called, provide adaptability and a variety of advantages. Regardless of their user advantages, the security of these Firefox browser add-ons is worth considering.
Typically, before installing Firefox browser extensions, you must read and agree to the publisher’s terms and conditions. Generally, these terms and conditions seek access to your private or personal information, including your log in, passwords, GPS position, browsing history, and surfing behavior. For whatever reason, data may be collected and shared with content providers. On the other hand, cybercriminals, hackers, and programmers with dubious motivations may create browser extensions. The issue then becomes how to remain secure when installing Firefox browser extensions to avoid vulnerability.
According to Mozilla, “extensions enhance the functionality of Firefox by adding new features or modifying existing functionality.” These extensions come in a variety of flavors and provide a variety of experiences.
Here are some tips for being safe when installing extensions for the Firefox browser.
Add-Ons Mozilla Org (AMO)
This platform serves as a central repository for Firefox extensions. This includes tools for searching, browsing, and installing Firefox browser extensions. To guarantee that the platform only includes up-to-date and trustworthy extensions, the platform now lists only traditional add-ons and web extensions.
Mozilla verifies extensions submitted for placement on the AMO through an automated procedure. Only extensions that have passed these checks are displayed.
As a result, the only extensions available on AMO have been extensively vetted and confirmed to be safe for user installation.
Manual verification
Due to Mozilla’s adoption of automated extension and add-on verification, it is feasible for certain problematic extensions to get access to AMO by exploiting a potential vulnerability in the automatic verification process. That is why you should personally verify any extension by downloading it to your local machine, extracting the XPI file, and thoroughly inspecting the code for any threats to your data and experience.
Check the permissions
These extensions request permission to access particular information on your browser or network. Read the permissions and verify that they match the extension’s stated purpose. If the permission sought falls beyond the scope of the extension’s intended use, do not install it.
Read the user reviews
One fast method to determine an extension’s safety is to look at its general data, such as its user count, rating, and add-on history. Consider extensions with a large user base, positive ratings, and positive reviews or comments.
Check for developer’s profile
Developers that have been actively maintaining extensions for an extended period are more trustworthy. Adhere to these guidelines to improve your degree of security while installing Firefox browser extensions.