Can Chrome extensions steal passwords?

Yes — malicious extensions with broad page-reading permissions can capture form data including passwords as you type. This is why only installing from verified publishers in the Chrome Web Store matters. Legitimate extensions from established companies do not misuse this permission, but it is why you should never install extensions from .crx files or third-party sites.

How to Remove Malicious Chrome Extensions (2026 Guide)

Q: How do I know if a Chrome extension is malicious?

Signs include search redirections, unexpected ads, homepage changes you didn't make, and new extensions you didn't install.

Signs of a Malicious Extension

Google search results being redirected to a different search engine

Ads appearing on websites that don't normally show them

Your browser homepage or default search engine changed without your input

Unexpected pop-ups or new tabs opening automatically

Chrome running significantly slower than before

New extensions appearing that you didn't install

How to Remove a Suspicious Extension

Go to chrome://extensions

Type chrome://extensions in Chrome's address bar. Review every installed extension. If you see anything you don't recognise or didn't install, treat it as suspicious.

Click "Remove" on the suspicious extension

Click Remove on the extension card. Confirm the removal. For extensions that resist removal or reappear, proceed to the next steps.

Run Chrome's built-in cleanup tool

Go to chrome://settings/cleanup → click Find harmful software. Chrome will scan for extensions and software known to cause browser hijacking and offer to remove them.

Reset Chrome settings if needed

Go to chrome://settings/reset → Restore settings to their original defaults. This resets your homepage, search engine, pinned tabs, and extension permissions without affecting bookmarks or saved passwords.

Check Windows Programs (if on Windows)

Some malware installs as a Windows program that reinstalls the Chrome extension. Go to Windows Settings → Apps → sort by install date → uninstall anything unfamiliar installed around the time problems started.

ℹ Prevention tip: Only install extensions from the Chrome Web Store, always verify the publisher name, and check the permissions before clicking "Add to Chrome". Legitimate SEO tools are published by companies with verified trader status (blue badge) in the Web Store.

Frequently Asked Questions

Signs include: search redirections, unexpected ads, homepage changes you didn't make, new extensions you didn't install, and Chrome running very slowly. Go to chrome://extensions and look for anything unfamiliar.

Yes — extensions with broad permissions ('read and change all your data on all websites') can technically read page content including form data. Malicious extensions have been documented stealing banking data and login credentials. Only install extensions from verified publishers on the Chrome Web Store.

How to Remove MaliciousChrome Extensions