Not all of them. While rare, malicious extensions can slip through Google’s approval system and infect users’ devices. Ensure you’re using trusted links directly from a VPN’s website. Don’t trust unlisted, private extensions, as they haven’t been verified by Google. Otherwise, the plug-ins in this roundup all come from reputable VPNs that have undergone our rigorous testing process. 

By default, a Chrome extension doesn’t keep any additional data compared with using a standalone application. However, it does add another layer of risk by trusting a third-party servicer. You take on a similar amount of risk when using the Google Play Store or the App Store. In the unlikely event that a security vulnerability is found on the platform, it could provide malicious actors with pathways to exploit plug-ins and apps. When malicious apps slip through, they can end up on thousands of computers.

A VPN Google Chrome extension is a browser extension that allows users to connect to a virtual private network (VPN) directly from their Google Chrome browser. This extension encrypts the user’s internet traffic and reroutes it through a private server, masking their IP address and location. This provides users with enhanced online privacy and security, as well as the ability to bypass geographic restrictions and access blocked content. VPN Google Chrome extensions are simple and easy to use, making them a popular choice for individuals looking to protect their online activities while using their browser.