CRX aminer
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Popup Blocker Max

Version 1.1.1.2 View in Chrome Web Store

Last scanned: about 8 hours ago

Extension Details

Rating: 4.2 ★ (18 ratings)
Users: 80,000

Context-Aware Verdict

HIGH
Overall Risk
Trust Factors:

The extension has a moderate user base of 80,000 users and a decent rating of 4.2 stars, which suggests some level of user satisfaction. However, the limited number of reviews (only 18) relative to the user count raises questions about engagement authenticity. The lack of clear developer information and company details significantly undermines trust and accountability.

Concerns:

The extension requests extremely broad permissions that far exceed what's necessary for basic popup blocking functionality. The webRequest permission combined with <all_urls> host access creates a powerful surveillance capability, allowing the extension to intercept, monitor, and potentially modify all web traffic across every website you visit. The unlimitedStorage permission enables indefinite data collection and retention. These permissions collectively grant capabilities typically associated with comprehensive web monitoring tools rather than simple popup blockers.

The absence of transparent developer information makes it impossible to verify the extension's legitimacy or hold anyone accountable for potential misuse.

Recommendations:

Consider running this extension in a completely separate Chrome profile isolated from your main browsing activities if you must use it. Better yet, explore well-established popup blockers from reputable developers with transparent privacy policies. Built-in browser popup blocking or extensions from known security companies would be safer alternatives that provide similar functionality without the extensive surveillance capabilities.

Findings

HIGH
Broad Host Permissions
This extension has broad host permissions allowing it to access many or all websites. This could potentially be used to steal sensitive data or track browsing activity.
HIGH
High-Risk Permission: webRequest
This extension has the webRequest permission. Can intercept and modify web requests. This could potentially be used maliciously to compromise security or privacy.
MEDIUM
Medium-Risk Permission: storage
This extension has the storage permission. Can store data locally.
MEDIUM
Medium-Risk Permission: unlimitedStorage
This extension has the unlimitedStorage permission. Can store unlimited data locally.