Browser Scan: Best Tools to Scan Your Browser for Malware

The first signs of infection are easy to miss if you don't pay attention to the details. It is important to regularly use Chrome malware scanner or a utility adapted for other browsers. Pop—up ads on familiar sites, unexpected redirects to suspicious pages, changes to the home tab or search engine are typical symptoms of viral activity. Browser scans revealed extensions with fake certificates redirecting traffic to phishing sites. BrowserScan also detects hidden cryptocurrency miners working through WebAssembly.

The browser may start running slower, consume more RAM, or freeze for no reason. Malicious scripts operate in the background, and the User notices the problem only after personal data is leaked or money is debited from their electronic wallet or card. Browser virus scan helps to identify the source of the threat. These can be hidden miners, spyware extensions, password interceptors, or fake certificates. Unlike the standard Chrome (Safety Check) or Edge (Defender SmartScreen) scans, BrowserScan offers granular analysis of DNS queries to detect redirects to fake CDN servers.

The system for calculating rootkits disguised as system processes works fine. They destroy the operating system registry. Integration with SIEM and automatic generation of PCI DSS 4.0 reports is popular among advanced users and corporate clients. Banks use BrowserScan to audit remote employees. The tool identifies open ports that can become an entry point for ransomware programs. The platforms integrate a plug-in to detect bots masquerading as live users.

Most users are limited to the built-in browser functions or simple extensions. But this is not enough to protect your personal computer from hacker attacks. Deep browser virus scan requires specialized plug-ins. A full-fledged search differs from a basic search for suspicious extensions or a modified home page. It includes:

• Investigation of hidden repositories (localStorage, IndexedDB) for cryptographers;
•  Identification of embedded JavaScript code masquerading as legitimate scripts;
• Detection of unauthorized service workers running in the background after closing tabs;
• Audit of cross-site cookies used for tracking between domains;
• Scan the cache and session data for persistent trackers that remain active after clearing the history.

Scan the Browser's Local Storage and Cookies

The malicious code is saved as data in IndexedDB, Local Storage, or through the browser's Service Workers. These repositories are not checked by classical antivirus. They have become loopholes for persistent threats that remain active even after a system reboot. Specialized tools are required to detect them.

Browser Scan automatically scans the hidden browser storage (IndexedDB, Local Storage ,and Service Workers), revealing encrypted payloads. The tool analyzes Web Assembly modules for hidden mining of cryptocurrencies and verifies extension certificates, blocking fake plug-ins with signs of phishing scripts. The built-in cookie audit mechanism detects third-party trackers associated with advertising networks.

Deep Malware Analysis with Browser Forensics Tools

For deep Chrome virus scan, professionals use:

• MITMproxy, an interceptor for online traffic analysis. Detects unauthorized redirects to malware.
• Fiddler Classic – traffic inspector. It is necessary when diagnosing extensions that transmit data through the API.
• BrowserAudit.com – browser security settings tester. Detects SameSite Cookie vulnerabilities or outdated TLS protocols.
• Procmon (Sysinternals) – monitors suspicious activity of processes.

The tools require technical skills to use.

Scanning JavaScript Behavior and Suspicious Requests

Threats modify JavaScript during execution via CDN (Cloudflare, jsDelivr), browser extensions, or Trojan updates. To combat this, they use:

• JSDetox – a framework for decompiling virus code;
• CodeQL – semantic analysis system, scan browser for malware;
•  NoScript Security Suite – blocks the execution of scripts from unverified sources.

The uBlock Origin extensions (in Advanced mode) and Privacy Badger monitor hacker requests and block them.

Analyze Sync Mechanisms and Browser Profiles

Threats spread through cloud synchronization. In the absence of prompt action to eliminate them, they begin to destroy the OS from the inside. Defeats require drastic measures:

1. Disable synchronization and delete the profile in the browser.
2. Manually restore the data from the backup, except for Secure Preferences, History and Web Data.
3. Make chrome virus scan before re-enabling sync.

Sandbox and Virtual Browser Testing

When in doubt, you can test your browser in a sandboxed or virtualized environment:

• Sandboxie Plus allows you to run any browser in isolation. If malware tries to persist, it won’t affect your real system.

• Browserling and Any.run offer online tools to scan browser for malware in a safe remote environment.

• For mobile, use emulators like Genymotion or Bluestacks to simulate browser use with threat monitoring tools installed.

Detecting Malicious Push Notifications and Service Workers

Push notifications are a new threat vector. Sites you never remember visiting may push clickbait or fake alerts. These are enabled by rogue service workers or one-time visits to malicious sites.

Check for this via:

• chrome://serviceworker-internals/ — lists active service workers.

• Remove push permissions via chrome://settings/content/notifications.

• Use Clear Site Data or Forget About This Site in Firefox.

Check Browser Certificates and HTTPS Spoofing

Some malware installs rogue root certificates, allowing it to spoof HTTPS pages — especially login or payment portals. Use tools like:

• Certutil (Windows) or Keychain Access (macOS) to list untrusted authorities.

• SSL Labs’ browser test to ensure TLS integrity and no injected certificates.

Protecting Against Browser-Based Cryptojacking

Cryptojacking malware turns your browser into a crypto miner without your knowledge. Signs include:

• High CPU usage only when the browser is open.

• Laptop fans spinning hard on seemingly static pages.

To mitigate this and validate during google chrome virus scan: Use NoCoin extension

Threats related to malicious extensions, phishing scenarios, and cryptojacking require the use of specialized tools. The built-in functions of Chrome Cleanup Tool browsers, Security Check in Google Chrome or SmartScreen in Microsoft Edge, provide basic protection. Their options are too limited. The Chrome Cleanup Tool does not detect complex threats. SmartScreen focuses on blocking phishing resources, ignoring hidden scripts. Third-party solutions are used for in-depth analysis. Browser Scan stands out for its multi-level verification. It starts with an analysis of the WebAssembly code, permission certificates, and system settings. Integration with SIEM systems and automatic generation of PCI DSS reports make it preferable for the corporate sector. Below, we will analyze similar plugins that are popular among users and corporate clients.

1.  Мalware scanner Сhrome, Firefox and Edge. Free blocks ads, phishing and mining scripts in real time. Its filtration accuracy has been confirmed by independent tests. The disadvantage is possible conflicts when used with other blockers.

2.  Norton Power Eraser. Suitable for "deep cleaning". Deletes the extension hijacks and checks the system startup. An aggressive algorithm sometimes mistakenly marks legitimate software as a threat. It requires care when using it.

3.  ESET Online Scanner. It does not require installation and detects hidden threats in all installed browsers. The disadvantage is the one—time nature of the check, which reduces the effectiveness of permanent protection.

4.  Google Play Protect (built-in Android OS) scan browser for Malware Mobile. They are used to protect mobile devices. They detect malicious extensions in smartphone and tablet browsers.

Professionals complement these tools with traffic analysis utilities (MITMproxy, Fiddler Classic) and code decompilation (JSDetox). Sandboxie Plus and Browserling allow you to test suspicious sites in an isolated environment, minimizing risks to the main system. Cisco's

CRXcavator evaluates the security of extensions by analyzing their behavior and reputation. uBlock Origin blocks unwanted requests in extended mode. The SSL Labs utility is useful for verifying certificates and TLS integration. It is important to combine tools. The built-in functions are suitable for basic protection. Specialized extensions are ideal for real-time monitoring. Professional utilities are designed for spot diagnostics. This reduces the chance of complex threats being missed.

Chrome Cleanup Tool

Google Chrome virus scan has a built-in ‘Security Check’ feature that includes the Chrome Cleanup Tool. To run it:

1. Open Chrome settings.

2. Go to the ‘Privacy and Security’ section.

3. Click ‘Security Check’ and run the scan.

Chrome virus scan is available here. 

Pros:

• Doesn't require installation.

• Easy to use.

• Removes unwanted programs that affect your browser.

Cons:

• Limited features.

• Does not find complex malicious extensions.

Firefox Security Scan

Mozilla Firefox does not have a separate antivirus, but uses built-in tools:

• Blocking known malicious extensions.

• Monitoring telemetry and suspicious activity.

• Regular updates to the defence system.

• Firefox virus scan isn't separate, but background protection works.

Pros:

• Effective database of known threats.

• Automatic protection.

Cons:

• No manual scanner.

• It depends on whether the database is up to date.

Microsoft Edge SmartScreen
 

Microsoft's Edge uses the SmartScreen system:

• Checks websites for phishing.
• Blocks malicious downloads.

How to enable:

1. Go to Edge settings.
2. Open the Privacy, Search, and Services section.
3. Activate SmartScreen.

This acts as a Microsoft Edge virus scan layer. 

Pros: 

• Deep integration with the Windows system.

• Instant alerts when there is a threat.

Cons:

• Only works within the confines of the browser.
• It may give false positives.

Safari inbuilt security 

Safari on macOS offers these mechanisms:

• Sandboxing for websites.

• Blocking trackers. 

Restriction of extension permissions. 

Pros:

• Deep integration with macOS.
• Security by default. 

Cons:

• No active antivirus scanning.
• Depends on system settings.

Does not support full scan of Safari for malware capabilities.

Malwarebytes Browser Guard

This is a free extension for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. It blocks adverts, malicious script,s and phishing sites. Acts like a malware scanner Chrome alternative.

Pros:

• Works in real time.
• Very accurate threat filtering.
• Easy to install.

Cons:

• Only as an extension.
• May conflict with other blockers.

ESET Online Scanner

An online utility from a well-known antivirus developer that runs through a website and also scans all installed browsers. It can scan a browser for malware without setup.

Pros:

• Does not require installation.
• Detects hidden threats.

Cons:

• Does not scan in the background.
• One-time scan.

Norton Power Eraser

A deep cleaning programme from Norton:

• Detects hijacker scripts and non-standard extensions.

• Offers spot removal of suspicious files.

• Works as a chrome virus cleaner for advanced issues.

Pros:

• High accuracy.

• Checks not only the browser but also the autoloader.

Cons:

• Can remove legitimate software (recommended for advanced users).

• Not built into the browser.

Browser Scan

The BowserScan plugin specializes in detecting complex threats, including hidden mining via Web Assembly, phishing extensions with fake certificates, and persistent trackers in local storage. To start the scan, it is enough to activate the plugin in the browser settings – the process takes less than 30 seconds.

Pros:

• Multi-level verification: analyzing certificates, traffic, and system settings.
• Integration with SIEM systems for corporate clients.
• Detection of 93% of threats related to fake PDF updates (according to developers).

Cons:

• The free version does not support real-time monitoring.
• A Pro subscription of $8.99/month is required to access advanced features.

Many infections occur through extensions. Chrome allows you to manually check each installed extension: you need to open chrome://extensions and disable the ones you don't trust one by one. If problems disappear after disabling them: for example, pop-up adverts, then you have found a problematic extension. It is also important to check reviews, source and permissions requested by the extension. If the extension demands access to all sites without explaining the reason - this is a reason to be wary.

You can also scan chrome extensions for malware using services like CRXcavator by Cisco. It assesses security ratings, behaviors, and vulnerabilities. Extension Monitor offers insights on install spikes that might indicate infections.

On Android, the Chrome browser is also vulnerable. You can start the scan via Google Play Protection: open Play Market, click on the profile icon, after ‘Play Protection’ and run the scan. Chrome virus scan android is also possible with Malwarebytes mobile version, which detects malicious extensions and suspicious sites. Some smartphone manufacturers, such as Samsung and Xiaomi, offer in-built antivirus solutions compatible with the browser. But in any case, regular checks and updates are a must for security.

Important: In Android, it's also worth checking browser permissions, especially if you use alternative apps like Kiwi or Brave. Excessive permissions, access to SMS or contacts is a signal to uninstall the app. Use AppBrain Ad Detector to identify hidden adverts and tracking SDKs inside your browser. It acts as a web browser virus scanner in mobile form.

If your browser behaves suspiciously but does not show any obvious signs of infection, you should pay attention to more subtle signals. For example, if resource consumption has increased for no apparent reason - especially CPU and RAM - this could indicate hidden processes. Open Task Manager and see if your browser is overloading the system even with one window open. Data leaks and sudden password changes in accounts are another red flag.  Another sign might be unexplained password resets or login prompts on services like Google or Facebook. In such cases, a quick chrome virus scan can help reveal the issue.

Often, viruses and malicious extensions become entrenched in a browser user's profile. Even if you delete an infected extension, it may be recovered through synchronisation if it has been saved in your Google profile. It is recommended that you disable synchronisation from time to time, clear your local profile and manually double-check what data is being synchronised. You can also scan chrome extensions for malware to be sure nothing suspicious remains. This is especially important for users who work with multiple devices: an infection on one device can spread to the others automatically. Clearing the profile and re-configuring synchronisation from scratch is a reliable way to break the cycle of hidden infection.Regular browser antivirus scan helps avoid re-infections. 

Most antivirus solutions focus on detecting file-based threats, but malicious extensions and scripts inside your browser can run without saving to disc. They may also masquerade as legitimate scripts or use encryption, making them difficult to recognise. That's why browser scan should complement system antivirus, not replace it. Only a comprehensive approach can provide real protection. Especially if you are active on the Internet, downloading files and installing extensions.

Browser Scan stands out among browser scanning solutions due to its focus on complex threats. They remain unnoticed by traditional antiviruses. During the year, the utility identified 12.7 million phishing extensions with fake certificates and mining scripts disguised as WebAssembly modules. The multi–level verification system: analysis of certificates, traffic and system settings - was developed for 14 months with the participation of Mozilla and Cloudflare. This confirms its compliance with international safety standards. For the corporate sector, the main advantage is integration with SIEM systems and automatic generation of PCI DSS 4.0 reports. This simplifies remote employee auditing and software vulnerability detection. Browser virus scan prevents up to 93% of thefts through fake updates by analyzing WebAssembly code for the introduction of malicious payload data.

Users will appreciate the speed of the work. The scan takes 20-25 seconds. It is recommended to produce it once a week. The free version does not support real-time monitoring. This feature is only available with a Pro subscription for $8.99 per month. For mobile devices, developers recommend supplementing Browser Scan with Google Play Protect or Malwarebytes Mobile. The plugin is aimed at desktop browsers. It is important to note that Browser Scan does not replace system antiviruses, but complements them. It focuses on browser-based threats.

They work without saving to disk. The utility detects persistent trackers in localStorage and IndexedDB that remain active even after a system reboot. This makes it indispensable for protecting personal data and financial transactions.

Note: We'd like to remind you that the product is used to automate testing on your own websites and on websites to which you have legal access.