How Extensions Could Be Your Biggest Security Risk

When was the last time you looked at the extensions running on your browser? It’s easy to forget about them, especially when they’re working seamlessly in the background. But as Bob Miller, COO of Global Data Systems, highlighted in the recent Senteon webinar, these seemingly harmless tools could be silently compromising your security.

During the webinar, Bob emphasized that browser extensions, if not managed properly, can act like a backdoor to your systems. They often require elevated permissions, meaning they can access data, modify settings, or even install additional software. “Extensions are powerful tools,” Bob explained, “but like handing over a key to someone you don’t know, they need to be managed with caution.”

One of the top recommendations from the discussion? Enforce an extension management policy. This is where CIS Benchmarks come into play. By setting up automated rules to allow only approved extensions, companies can reduce the risk of malicious add-ons sneaking in. For Bob, the approach is simple but effective: “Lock things down first, then loosen the reins where necessary.”

The Download Trap: Avoiding Unwanted Software

Another key security point Bob raised was automatic download settings. Many organizations leave this feature enabled, allowing websites to download files directly onto the system without user confirmation. It’s a small convenience with a huge risk. By allowing automatic downloads, businesses open themselves up to potentially malicious software slipping through the cracks.

Bob humorously compared this setting to leaving your windows open while you’re away—just because you don’t notice a draft doesn’t mean someone isn’t getting in. By disabling automatic downloads, you ensure that nothing enters your system without explicit permission. He urged businesses to “disable the feature and make sure users know to double-check every download.” This additional step makes it harder for malware to slip in undetected.

Authentication: Your First Line of Defense

On the topic of authentication, Bob made it clear that relying on outdated methods like basic HTTP authentication is a mistake no business can afford to make. By enforcing the use of HTTPS and disabling weak protocols, companies can greatly reduce the risk of credential theft.

One of Bob’s key pieces of advice? “Don’t just trust the default settings.” Microsoft Edge, like many other browsers, ships with settings that favor convenience over security. But by using CIS Benchmarks to configure authentication settings, businesses can ensure they’re not leaving backdoors open for attackers.

The webinar highlighted how seemingly small configuration changes, like switching to more secure authentication methods, can have a significant impact on overall security. For any company serious about proactive threat mitigation, these tweaks are essential.

Want to dive deeper into these topics? Watch the full episode here, or check out upcoming episodes here.

And don’t forget, you can sign up for a free internal and external security assessment from Senteon to see how your browser security stacks up. Just mention “settings webinar” here.