Google Chrome extensions provide users with a variety of functionalities right within their browsers, eliminating the need for third-party applications.
Poses Privacy Risks
However, not all extensions are safe. A recent cybersecurity alert has raised concerns about the popular PDF Toolbox extension, which allows users to merge, split, rotate, and convert PDF documents, according to El Economista.
Despite its convenience and a solid rating of 4.2 on the Play Store, experts warn that PDF Toolbox poses significant privacy risks.
Cybersecurity specialist Wladimir Palant highlights that the extension can access external servers and monitor users’ web browsing activities. This capability enables cybercriminals to potentially harvest personal information and sell it to third parties, compromising user security.
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Might Not be Worth It
With over two million downloads, PDF Toolbox has become a favored tool for handling PDFs. However, the trade-off for its functionalities might not be worth the risk.
Users are strongly advised to uninstall the extension to safeguard their privacy. Fortunately, there are many online platforms available that offer similar PDF editing features without requiring any installations.
If you currently use PDF Toolbox, take immediate action to protect your personal information. You can find alternative websites that allow you to merge and convert PDFs safely, ensuring your browsing data remains secure.
The warning from cybersecurity experts serves as a reminder of the importance of regularly reviewing the extensions and applications we use.
