A usage philosophy rooted in the cloud, app sandboxing, and robust recovery measures mean ChromeOS-powered Chromebooks stand above others in matters of user safety. Yet, there are ways to hack and exploit devices as security-centric as Chromebooks.
Here are the five most common ones and the steps you should take to continue your carefree experience.
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Phishing & Social Engineering
Since ChromeOS has extensive safeguards that tackle automated threats and system vulnerabilities, targeting users is easier and much more effective.
Phishing and other social engineering are particularly insidious since they’re designed to convince users to take harmful actions, either in response to a supposed threat, a prize, or via some other pretext. Such messages contain links that may download ransomware and other malware to your device.
Quality engineering services play a vital role in mitigating these risks by implementing robust security protocols, conducting thorough system testing, and ensuring software resilience against such vulnerabilities.
Alternatively, they get you to enter login credentials into fake copies of websites. This may completely compromise your Chromebook if the attackers gain access to your Google account.
Learning to recognize and avoid various social engineering attacks will greatly reduce their effectiveness. In case of phishing, you should ensure that the sender’s email and any sites they direct you to are legitimate.
Google and other established companies will never ask for your account details via email, either. When unsure, it’s best to delete the email or contact the sender for confirmation.
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Compromised Browser Extensions
Extensions are excellent for customizing Chrome and extending its functionality. They also potentially carry covert code that can do all kinds of harm. Suspect extensions may harbor malware that locks down your Chromebook, track your browsing data, and even compromise your account credentials.
The Great Suspender was a legitimate extension turned malware in 2021 that collected user data without consent. Google has once again flagged it as such, prompting thousands of users to look for safer alternatives.
Scrutinize Chrome extensions’ descriptions, permission requirements, and user reviews before installation.
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Weak Passwords
Chromebooks are straightforward and secure by design, which makes them appealing to casual and younger users. While none of us are immune, they are more inclined to disregard password security.
It takes hackers seconds to crack short, common passwords inexperienced users set up since they’re easy to remember. Google takes user data protection seriously and has never suffered a significant breach.
However, using the same password for accounts maintained by companies with worse security measures can still put your Google account at risk from credential stuffing attacks.
Automating credential creation through a password manager is a safe and uncomplicated way for everyone to enjoy greater password security.
The simplest way to get one is by visiting the Web Store and installing a Chrome password manager. You have to make an account and choose a master password for the manager — the only one you’ll have to remember from now on.
You may then import existing passwords or have the manager create strong, unique ones for each account. It’s also a good idea to turn on autofill and two-factor authentication for added protection.
Finally, you may want to install the manager’s mobile and desktop apps on your other devices. That will let you sync them and make logging in easier while maintaining security.
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Unsafe Apps
Chromebooks support Android and Linux apps, which have their own risks. Google vets the apps available on the Play Store. Still, they may come with annoying ads, drain your battery, or request more permissions than they have any business requesting. Third-party apps can also contain malware.
Carefully examine an app’s permission requests and user reviews and avoid it if something seems off, even on the Play Store. Refrain from using Developer Mode and downloading apps from untrustworthy sources.
Some apps collect data on your usage habits or preferences, which may get exposed if they ever suffer a data breach. Be sure to secure all app accounts with the best password manager to maximize data and account safety.
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Network Vulnerabilities
Such networks, like schools, have firewalls, content filters, and other safeguards that make them secure for students. The same isn’t the case with public Wi-Fi, though. Hackers may connect to the network at your local coffee shop or bookstore or create a fake copy.
Either way, they can monitor your internet activity and potentially steal any logins or other valuable information you type in.
It’s best to avoid public Wi-Fi altogether. Your smartphone’s network is a safer option if you need to access important accounts or pay on the go. Alternatively, you can use a VPN to encrypt the connection and protect it from monitoring.
