Do you use the popular “Save image as Type” Google Chrome extension? If so, we have an important scam alert. More than one million users found that Google has disabled this extension in their browser due to it containing malware.
The extension has also been completely removed from the Chrome Web Store.
What was “Save image as Type?”
This was a widely used and seemingly innocent tool that made it easy to right-click on any image on a webpage and quickly save it as a PNG, JPG, or WebP file. Because of its useful function and over 1,700 positive reviews, many users felt it was a safe and legitimate add-on.
What was the Malware Actually Doing?
While it’s not yet officially confirmed by Google, investigative work by savvy Reddit users reveals a common and clever scam. It appears the extension was not stealing sensitive personal data, but instead, stealing sales commissions.
According to these users, the extension’s code was designed to:
- Identify when a user visited popular e-commerce sites like Amazon or Best Buy.
- Use a hidden “iFrame” (a small window within the webpage) to secretly load the site.
- Swap out the existing affiliate or referral codes for those owned by the scammer.
This means that if you made a purchase while the extension was active, the scammer, not the original referrer (like a product review site), received the commission. While it didn’t cost you extra, it’s a deceptive and fraudulent practice.
Why Should You Be Concerned?
This case highlights a common problem with browser extensions. They often require broad permissions to function, which can be easily abused by developers who turn malicious. In fact, this same extension was flagged for similar behavior on the Microsoft Edge browser over a year ago. Even more shocking, Google had previously featured this extension on the Chrome Web Store, giving users a false sense of security.
If an extension with a 4.2-star rating and over a million users can be a scam, it’s clear that the average consumer needs more robust protection than a simple browser prompt.
How to Protect Yourself: Upgrade to a Real Antivirus
This is where a comprehensive security solution like PC Matic Antivirus comes in. Unlike the basic, often delayed protection provided by a browser’s built-in tools, PC Matic offers a powerful, multi-layered approach to security that can defend you against these and more serious threats.
Here’s how PC Matic Antivirus is your best defense:
- Proactive Malware Blocking: PC Matic’s patented application allowlisting technology is designed to block all unapproved files from running.
- Real-Time Ad Blocking & Tracker Prevention: PC Matic goes beyond simple virus scanning. It includes sophisticated tools to block annoying ads and malicious scripts.
- Comprehensive System Optimization: PC Matic doesn’t just protect you; it makes your device run better. It automates security patches, optimizes performance, and keeps your system up-to-date.
Don’t wait for your browser to tell you about a scam after you’ve already been a victim. Take control of your digital security and upgrade to PC Matic Antivirus today. Your data, your privacy, and your wallet are worth it.
