Mozilla Launches New Feature Against Malicious Firefox Crypto Add-Ons

Mozilla unveils new detection tool for its Firefox web browser, aiming to thwart crypto wallet thefts before they cause harm.

Early detection for better security

Mozilla recently introduced a security mechanism to the add-on portal of its famous web browser, Firefox. The feature is designed to prevent a growing wave of crypto-draining extensions.

The new system automatically flags potentially malicious wallet extensions, aiming to prevent users from falling prey to crypto scams.

The feature works by analyzing each submitted wallet extension and generating a risk profile. If an extension exceeds a certain threshold, the system triggers an alert for human reviewers to investigate and take appropriate action.

How the system works

“The first layer of defense involves automated indicators that determine a risk profile for wallet extensions submitted to AMO,” Mozilla explains in a recent blog post.

“If a wallet extension reaches a certain risk threshold, human reviewers are alerted to take a deeper look. If found to be malicious, the scam extensions are blocked immediately.”

However, the system’s ability to detect suspicious patterns is only half the battle. Users should still take care when interacting with third-party crypto wallet utilities and opt for official, proven extensions only if necessary.

Crypto drainers’ ascent

Malicious crypto-draining extensions are increasingly disguised as legitimate tools from trusted crypto wallet providers.

Once installed, they can steal private keys or credentials and swiftly empty users’ wallets. As expected, stolen assets are typically unrecoverable.

However, wallet-draining extensions aren’t the only way to lose your crypto funds. Threat actors employ various tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs) to defraud you of your hard-earned digital assets.

Acknowledging these TTPS and understanding how they work can help you avoid crypto scams.

Keeping your digital assets safe

Despite Mozilla’s efforts to contain the rising threat of crypto wallet drainers, its solution is strictly tied to its Firefox web browser. Threats coming from outside the browser may still be able to affect and even drain your crypto wallets.

Specialized solutions like Bitdefender Ultimate Security can help you secure your crypto assets against cyber threats, but also protects you against other digital intrusions.

Its key features include continuous, real-time protection against viruses, worms, Trojans, zero-day exploits, ransomware and spyware, behavioral detection for active apps, crypto mining protection, and AI-powered scam detection.