The National Telecom and Information Technology Security Board (NTISB) has issued a cybersecurity alert to warn Pakistani users about the risks associated with certain browser extensions that could jeopardize their personal data.
The advisory highlights tools like ChatGPT-4, Gemini for Chrome, and over a dozen others, which hackers are exploiting to steal private information.
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The board warns users of virtual private networks (VPNs) and AI-powered tools about the increasing threat of phishing attacks. Hackers are injecting malicious code into legitimate extensions, putting users’ personal identifiable information (PII) at risk.
Among the 16 compromised extensions are popular tools like AI Assistant – ChatGPT, Bard AI Chat Extension, VPNCity, VidHelper Video Downloader, and Trackker – Online Keylogger Tool.
The NTISB recommends users:
- Avoid using affected extensions and choose trusted alternatives.
- Install extensions only from reputable sources.
- Carefully review extension permissions and ratings.
- Keep extensions updated.
- Remove unused extensions.
- Maintain up-to-date antivirus software.
- Be cautious of free extensions.
- Monitor system activity for unusual behavior.
