Browser Extensions and Privacy: What You Should Know

Extensions Can See a Lot

Browser extensions are powerful. They can modify web pages, read your browsing data, and interact with almost everything you do online. That power comes with responsibility, and not all extension developers take privacy seriously. Before you install any extension, it is worth understanding what permissions mean and how to spot trustworthy ones.

What Permissions Really Mean

When you install an extension, the browser asks for permission to access certain features or data. Common permissions include:

Storage. Allows the extension to save data locally on your device. This is often used for settings and preferences. It does not grant access to your browsing history or personal information.

Active tab. Lets the extension read or modify only the tab you are currently viewing. This is more limited than full site access.

All sites / Host permissions. Gives the extension access to read or modify content on specified websites (or all websites). Extensions with broad host permissions can see what you type, what you click, and what pages you visit on those sites.

Identity. Allows the extension to identify you (e.g., your email address) when you are signed into the browser. This is sensitive and should be granted only when necessary.

The fewer permissions an extension requests, the less it can potentially access. A good rule of thumb: if an extension asks for more than it needs to do its job, be cautious.

Red Flags to Watch For

Excessive permissions. An extension that blocks ads does not need access to your identity or your data on every website. If the requested permissions seem unrelated to the extension's purpose, reconsider.

Vague or missing privacy policy. Reputable extensions typically have a clear privacy policy that explains what data is collected and how it is used. If there is no policy or it is unclear, that is a warning sign.

Unknown or new developers. Extensions from well-known developers or organizations are generally safer. New or anonymous developers with few reviews warrant extra scrutiny.

Suspicious reviews. Look for patterns in reviews. Generic praise, copy-pasted text, or reviews that do not match the extension's functionality can indicate manipulation.

Frequent permission changes. If an extension suddenly requests new, broader permissions after an update, find out why. Sometimes legitimate features require this, but it can also signal a change in ownership or intent.

How to Evaluate Trustworthy Extensions

Check the permission list before installing. Ask yourself: does this extension need each permission to function? A simple utility that hides elements on a page (like Shorts) may only need storage for your preferences and access to YouTube. It should not need identity, clipboard access, or broad site permissions.

Look for transparency. Does the developer explain what the extension does and what it does not do? Extensions that clearly state they do not collect data or track users are generally more trustworthy.

NoShorts and Privacy

NoShorts is designed with privacy in mind. It requires only the "storage" permission to save your settings locally. It does not request access to your identity, browsing history, or data from other websites. It collects zero data and does not send any information to external servers. The extension runs entirely on your device, modifying only the YouTube page to hide Shorts. When evaluating extensions, this is the kind of minimal, transparent approach to look for.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

Browser extensions can improve your experience, but they can also compromise your privacy if you are not careful. Always review permissions, read privacy policies, and choose extensions that ask for only what they need. Your data is valuable; treat it that way.