Addon safety

[pcslookout]

What is the best way to determine if a browser addon like for example Firefox is safe ? I been reading how some could be. So how does the average user know?

 

[lxskllr]

They probably don't. Using ones that are open source is a good start, and sticking with big names/reputable devs is a good idea. Mozilla also does some checking, but I don't know how extensive the checks are. As with all software, you need to be cautious with what you pick.

 

[kleinkinstein]

If you want safe, use Tor and DDG.

 

[Nothinman]

If you want safe, use Tor and DDG.

Neither of which will help if an add-on is collecting information as it's passed into and out of your browser.

 

[cl-scott]

I do believe Mozilla has started doing at least some basic checks for this sort of thing for any addon/extension on their official repository. Things sometimes will and do slip through the cracks, but they remove them as they're reported. Beyond that, to be absolutely sure, you'd need to look at the source code for each and every extension, and also have a packet analyzer program inspecting every outgoing packet.

 

[pcslookout]

I do believe Mozilla has started doing at least some basic checks for this sort of thing for any addon/extension on their official repository. Things sometimes will and do slip through the cracks, but they remove them as they're reported. Beyond that, to be absolutely sure, you'd need to look at the source code for each and every extension, and also have a packet analyzer program inspecting every outgoing packet.

Thanks.