Best Chrome extensions for security and privacy in 2026

What are browser extensions?

Browser extensions are small add-ons that give the Chrome browser extra features and tools. They can help with things like blocking ads, managing passwords, improving privacy, or making everyday browsing easier. Most are installed through the Chrome Web Store and can be turned on or removed at any time.

Are browser extensions safe?

Some browser extensions are safe, but not all of them. Malicious browser extensions do exist, and even legitimate ones may request broad permissions that allow them to read data on websites you visit, track activity, or access sensitive information such as browsing history.

Some can also collect user data for advertising or analytics, so it’s worth choosing tools from trusted developers with clear privacy policies. Before installing anything, check reviews, permissions, update history, and whether the extension truly needs the access it asks for.

If you notice unusual pop-ups, redirects, or sudden browser slowdowns, running a Chrome virus scan can help detect harmful software or risky extensions.

Best Chrome extensions for security and privacy

The right browser tools can help reduce tracking, block harmful content, protect accounts, and make everyday browsing safer. Most of the extensions below work not only on Chrome but also on other Chromium browsers such as Edge and Brave, while many are available for Firefox as well.

We selected these options based on privacy impact, security benefits, transparency, reputation, and ease of use through official browser stores or trusted developer sources. Please note, there is no single best choice for everyone, same as there is no single best browser for privacy  — the right setup depends on how you browse, what risks matter most to you, and how much control you want.

uBlock Origin

(Available on Firefox and some Chromium-based browsers. Chrome users may also consider uBlock Origin Lite.)

uBlock Origin remains one of the most trusted content blockers for users who want fewer ads, less tracking, and more control over what loads in the browser. It is open-source, lightweight, and popular with privacy-focused users who prefer a cleaner browsing experience.

Because of recent Chrome extension platform changes, the full version does not work as smoothly on Chrome as it once did, especially on sites like YouTube. If you use Chrome or another Chromium browser, uBlock Origin Lite is the better fit because it was built for the newer extension system.

NordVPN browser extension

(Available on Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and other Chromium-based browsers)

The NordVPN Chrome extension is a lightweight proxy extension that helps secure browser traffic, hide your IP address, and add extra privacy while you browse. It encrypts browser data, which can help protect you on public Wi-Fi and reduce exposure on unsecured networks, while offering the convenience of a browser-based VPN.

You can connect to servers in different countries, change your visible IP address, and browse with more privacy in just a few clicks. It also includes features such as Threat Protection Pro™ tools that block intrusive ads, malicious sites, phishing, and some web trackers.

If you only want browser protection instead of full-device coverage, the extension is a practical option. It offers a safe browsing experience and supports split tunneling, so you can choose which websites use the extension connection and which use your regular location.

Privacy Badger

(Available on Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and other Chromium-based browsers)

Privacy Badger is a privacy-focused extension created by the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a well-known digital rights nonprofit. Instead of relying only on fixed blocklists, it detects and limits trackers that appear to follow you across different websites.

Its behavior-based system can suit people who want tracker blocking without spending time on manual settings. It also helps stop some third-party cookies and invisible tracking tools that collect browsing data in the background.

Privacy Badger is often used alongside other privacy tools, especially by users who want simple protection from cross-site tracking.

NordPass

(Available on Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera, Brave, and other major browsers)

NordPass is a password manager extension that helps you store passwords, passkeys, payment details, and secure notes in one encrypted vault. Instead of reusing the same password across multiple accounts, you can generate strong unique logins and fill them quickly when signing in.

It can also save time by autofilling credentials, syncing across devices, and alerting you to weak or reused passwords. Support for passkeys gives users a more modern sign-in option that can be both safer and easier than traditional passwords.

For people managing many accounts, NordPass can reduce password fatigue while improving account security. Other tools such as LastPass are also available, but for those who prioritize privacy-focused features and a clean experience, NordPass may be the stronger fit.

ClearURLs

(Available for Firefox and through manual installation on some Chromium browsers)

ClearURLs is a privacy-focused extension that removes tracking parameters from web links before pages load. Many URLs include extra tags used for analytics, advertising, or referral tracking, and this tool helps strip that unnecessary data.

Cleaner links can improve privacy, make shared URLs shorter, and reduce how much browsing activity is tied to clicks. It is especially useful for users who often open links from search engines, newsletters, or social media platforms.

Because it is not currently available in the Chrome Web Store, Chrome users need to install it manually through developer mode or use another trusted source.

No Script

(Available for Firefox and through manual installation on some Chromium browsers)

NoScript is a long-running security extension that blocks active website content such as JavaScript, Java, Flash, and other scripts unless you allow them. This can reduce risks from malicious code, drive-by downloads, and some forms of website-based attacks.

It offers a high level of control, which makes it popular with advanced users who prefer to decide which sites can run scripts. The trade-off is convenience, because some websites may not work properly until permissions are adjusted.

Because it is not currently available in the Chrome Web Store, Chromium users may need to install it manually through developer mode or use supported alternatives.

Decentraleyes

(Available on Chrome, Firefox, and some Chromium-based browsers)

Decentraleyes is a privacy extension that reduces requests to third-party content delivery networks (CDNs) by serving common web resources locally inside your browser. That can help limit some forms of tracking from large external providers while keeping websites working normally.

It is often used alongside ad blockers or tracker blockers as an extra privacy layer rather than a standalone solution. Users who want to minimize background connections to third parties may find it useful.

Like many niche privacy tools, its value depends on your browsing habits and existing setup, so it works best as part of a broader privacy-focused browser configuration.

DuckDuckGo extension

(Available on Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, and other supported browsers)

DuckDuckGo’s browser extension combines several privacy tools in one place for users who want a simple setup. It helps block third-party trackers, upgrades connections to encrypted HTTPS where available, and offers quick privacy information about websites you visit.

The extension is built around everyday browsing privacy rather than advanced customization, which makes it a practical choice for people who prefer something easy to install and use. It can also help reduce targeted advertising or malvertising by limiting common tracking methods.

If you are looking for a lightweight Chrome privacy extension without managing multiple add-ons, DuckDuckGo is a reliable option.

Behind The Overlay

(Available on Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers)

Behind The Overlay is a lightweight extension designed to remove intrusive pop-ups, sign-up walls, and page overlays that block content. It can close overlays with one click or a keyboard shortcut, and it may also restore scrolling on pages that lock the screen behind pop-ups.

Unlike ad blockers that rely on filter lists, it works when you trigger it manually, which keeps it simple and light on browser resources. It can be useful for users who are tired of aggressive newsletter prompts and content-blocking interruptions.

Because it asks for minimal permissions, it appeals to users who want a narrow tool that solves one common browsing annoyance without adding extra tracking risk. 

Cookie-AutoDelete

(Available for Firefox and through manual installation on some Chromium browsers)

Cookie AutoDelete helps remove cookies from tabs once you close them, which can reduce persistent tracking and keep your browser cleaner. It also lets you whitelist trusted sites, so you can stay logged in where it matters while deleting the rest.

This makes it useful for people who want more control over cookies without having to manually clear cookies after every session. It can also help reduce leftover site data from shopping, social media, and ad networks.

Because it is not currently available in the Chrome Web Store, Chromium users may need to install it manually through developer mode or another trusted source.