Chrome extensions can add useful features, but each one is code that may run on websites you visit. Install only what you need, choose reputable developers, and review installed extensions regularly.
Does this affect you?
Use this for Google Chrome on Windows, Mac, and Chromebook. Many Chrome extensions also work in Microsoft Edge through the Chrome Web Store.
Install and manage extensions safely
Use the official store and check the basics before installing.
- Open the Chrome Web Store at chromewebstore.google.com, or use the puzzle-piece menu to discover extensions.
- Check the developer name, rating, update history, and recent reviews.
- Read the permission prompt before installing.
- Click Add to Chrome, then Add extension.
- Use the puzzle-piece icon to pin frequently used extensions.
- Remove unused extensions from chrome://extensions or by right-clicking the extension icon.
More extensions is not better. Fewer trusted extensions usually means better speed, fewer conflicts, and less privacy risk.
Useful extension categories
These are common categories worth considering.
- Ad and tracker blocking: uBlock Origin Lite is the Chrome-friendly successor designed for Chrome current extension rules.
- Password management: Bitwarden works across browsers and devices and can generate unique passwords.
- Writing help: Grammarly can catch spelling and grammar mistakes in browser text fields.
More control
Be careful with shopping extensions
Coupon and shopping-helper extensions can be privacy-sensitive because they watch shopping pages and may modify affiliate links. Install only well-known options and read recent reviews.
Review every few months
Open chrome://extensions and remove anything you no longer use. Extensions can change owners or behavior over time.
Control site access
Chrome lets you limit some extensions to specific sites or click-to-run access. Use tighter access when an extension does not need to read every page.
Sources
- Google Chrome Help – Add, remove & manage extensions in Chrome (2025)
- Google Chrome Help – Control which extensions can run in Chrome (2025)
- Google Safety Center – Report harmful content or malware on Google (2025)