NewsPublished 30 Jun 2026

Fake Perplexity extension on Chrome Web Store tracked searches

Source Bleeping Computer

Description

A malicious Chrome extension impersonating the Perplexity AI answer engine was found on the Chrome Web Store. This fake extension intercepts users' search traffic and collects browsing information without authorization. There is no indication of known exploits in the wild or an official patch. The threat primarily involves privacy invasion through data interception by a deceptive browser extension.

Impact

The impact involves unauthorized interception of search traffic and collection of browsing information by the fake extension, leading to potential privacy violations and data leakage. There is no evidence of remote code execution or other direct system compromise beyond data interception. No known active exploitation has been reported.

Defensive guidance

Users should only install extensions from verified publishers and monitor browser extensions for unauthorized additions. Report the malicious extension to the Chrome Web Store for removal.

Summary

A malicious Chrome extension posing as the Perplexity AI answer engine was identified on the Chrome Web Store. This extension intercepts search traffic and collects browsing data from users, potentially compromising user privacy. The extension is not an official product and is designed to masquerade as a legitimate tool to deceive users. The threat is categorized as a medium severity vulnerability due to the privacy risks involved.

References

bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/fake-perplexity-extension-on-chrome-web-store-tracked-searches/ (opens in a new tab)

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Description

AI analysisMachine-generated, updated 30 Jun 2026, 16:21 UTC

References

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