CRX aminer
Extension icon

Browsec VPN - Free VPN for Chrome

Version 3.92.12 View in Chrome Web Store

Last scanned: about 10 hours ago

Extension Details

Developer: browsec.com
Rating: 4.4 ★ (37.2K ratings)
Users: 8,000,000

Context-Aware Verdict

HIGH
Overall Risk
Trust Factors:

The extension has strong legitimacy indicators with 8 million users, a solid 4.4-star rating from 37,200 reviews, and is published by browsec.com, a known VPN service provider. The high user base and positive ratings suggest it's a legitimate service that has been widely adopted and generally well-received by users.

Concerns:

The extension's extensive permissions are concerning even for a VPN service. The proxy, webRequest, and broad host permissions create a powerful combination that allows complete control over your internet traffic. The Content Security Policy reveals connections to numerous suspicious domains with generic names like "datafrenzy.org," "quickcache.xyz," and "speedycdn.fun" - many using non-standard TLDs that could indicate ad networks or tracking services. The webRequestAuthProvider permission adds another layer of network control capability. While these permissions may be necessary for VPN functionality, they also create significant potential for misuse.

Recommendations:

Consider using this extension in a separate Chrome profile to isolate it from your primary browsing activities and sensitive accounts. Regularly review your network traffic and be cautious about using it for sensitive activities like banking. Consider whether a dedicated VPN application might be safer than a browser extension for your privacy needs. Monitor the extension's behavior and disable it when VPN functionality isn't needed.

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: proxy
This extension has the proxy permission. Can control proxy settings. This could potentially be used maliciously to compromise security or privacy.
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.