If you have noticed a strange extension named ‘nmmhkkegccagdldgiimedpiccmgmieda’ on your Chrome browser and are wondering whether it is a virus or a legitimate extension.
In this article, we’ll explain more about this strange extension and what to do if you have installed it.
What is ‘nmmhkkegccagdldgiimedpiccmgmieda’ extension?
According to some sources, this extension was used for in-app payments. It is the ID of the Google Wallet extension on Google Chrome. Users can use this extension to make online payments using their Google accounts.
However, later, Google removed this extension from the Chrome Web Store and integrated this extension and payment feature into the Chrome browser itself.
Be fairly warned that installing this extension from any third-party sources can harm your device as the extension is now disabled and outdated and could pose a significant security risk.
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How did ‘nmmhkkegccagdldgiimedpiccmgmieda’ get installed on Chrome?
There are several ways that ‘nmmhkkegccagdldgiimedpiccmgmieda’ could have been installed on your computer.
Some of the common ways are as follows:
- You may have installed this extension via a software bundle.
- You may have visited a malicious website, and your Chrome browser may have been compromised.
- You may have clicked on the malicious pop-up ads, infecting your computer system with malware.
- You may have received a malicious email luring you to click on a link or an attachment that may have installed the extension.
Also read: Is this number a scammer?
Is ‘nmmhkkegccagdldgiimedpiccmgmieda’ a virus?
Although the extension was legitimate, it is now being used by threat actors to target victims as Google has integrated the extension into the browser itself, and the extension is now outdated.
Hackers and scammers can hijack this extension and lure the victims via ads.
If the extension is malware, it will show the following signs:
- You will see no icon, name or description on the Chrome settings page.
- The extension can redirect internet searches to some particular malicious websites, or it can change your homepage and display ads or modify your browser settings.
- The extension may ask for passwords, credit card details or personal data.
- You may face problems in accessing certain websites.
Your browser is certainly affected if you notice any of the above points.
Also read: Is Instacart a scam?
How to fix ‘nmmhkkegccagdldgiimedpiccmgmieda’ extension?
Usually, this extension is not a problem as it is integrated into the Chrome browser. However, as we have explained, many hacker groups might use the same extension name for a third-party malicious extension that can be installed on your computer without your knowledge.
If you don’t remember having installed this extension recently, you may want to remove it as soon as you see it.
To fix this issue, run an antivirus on your computer. If the antivirus finds that the extension is adware, it will notify you, and you can then remove it from the system.
Or you can install an adblocker on Chrome to avoid clicking on irritating adware.
In conclusion, normally, the ‘nmmhkkegccagdldgiimedpiccmgmieda’ extension is not a virus. However, often, you may download this extension via adware, which can cause your Chrome browser to behave rather suspiciously. If you notice any suspicious activities on your browser, run an antivirus scan on your computer and install an adblock.
Also read: Is Flash Rewards a scam?
