Tuesday, February 13, 2018

Tabula Rosa Systems Blog Of 2/13/18 - Browser Extension



Browser Extension
A browser extension is a small software application that adds a capacity or functionality to a web browser. A browser extension, also called a plug-in, can take advantage of the same application program interfaces (APIs) that JavaScript can on a web page, but the extension can do more because it also has access to its own set of APIs.
While extensions are typically used to add features and enhance the functionality of a website, they can also be used to remove unwanted website elements such as pop-up ads and features such as auto-play for online videos.
Here are a few examples of browser extensions:
  • AdBlock - enables content filtering and ad blocking.
  • HTTPS Everywhere - provides another layer of security by making websites that support the extension automatically connect through HTTPS.
  • StayFocusd - limits the amount of time the user is allowed to spend on designated websites.
  • Highly - allows the user to highlight webpage text and share it through social media, email, Slack or iMessage.
Browser extensions are usually written in HTML, CSS or JavaScript. Like other types of software, browser extensions can be coded for undesirable behaviors and be misused to deliver malware. Though most add-ons are reviewed prior to being listed, malicious extensions that violate browser developer program policies are not uncommon.
For example, in January 2018, it a security company called ICEBERG reported that four malicious extensions available from the Chrome Web Store were designed to conduct click fraud and black hat SEO. In 2017, Proofpoint reported that eight compromised Chrome extensions had sent malicious code to almost four and a half million users.

When deciding whether or not to install an extension, always keep in mind the type of resources the extension can access and where it will send the data it collects. Treat with extreme caution any extensions that do any of the following:
  • Interact with local files
  • Interact with the Windows Registry
  • Interact with cookies
  • Access any browser tab or window
  • Execute commands in the user's shell
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   Good Netiquette And A Green Internet To All!  =====================================================================
Tabula Rosa Systems - Tabula Rosa Systems (TRS) is dedicated to providing Best of Breed Technology and Best of Class Professional Services to our Clients. We have a portfolio of products which we have selected for their capabilities, viability and value. TRS provides product, design, implementation and support services on all products that we represent. Additionally, TRS provides expertise in Network Analysis, eBusiness Application Profiling, ePolicy and eBusiness Troubleshooting. We can be contacted at:
sales@tabularosa.net  or 609 818 1802.
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In addition to this blog, Netiquette IQ has a website with great assets which are being added to on a regular basis. I have authored the premiere book on Netiquette, “Netiquette IQ - A Comprehensive Guide to Improve, Enhance and Add Power to Your Email". My new book, “You’re Hired! Super Charge Your Email Skills in 60 Minutes. . . And Get That Job!” has just been published and will be followed by a trilogy of books on Netiquette for young people. You can view my profile, reviews of the book and content excerpts at:


Anyone who would like to review the book and have it posted on my blog or website, please contact me paul@netiquetteiq.com.

In addition to this blog, I maintain a radio show on BlogtalkRadio  and an online newsletter via paper.li.I have established Netiquette discussion groups with Linkedin and  Yahoo.  I am also a member of the International Business Etiquette and Protocol Group and Minding Manners among others. I regularly consult for the Gerson Lehrman Group, a worldwide network of subject matter experts and I have been contributing to the blogs Everything Email and emailmonday . My work has appeared in numerous publications and I have presented to groups such as The Breakfast Club of NJ and  PSG of Mercer County.

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