Why is Tampermonkey blacklisted?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

Tampermonkey, a popular browser extension, has been blacklisted by Opera due to security concerns. The specific version of Tampermonkey that is currently offered on the Chrome Web Store has been found to be infected with Windows malware. As a result, Opera has taken the precautionary measure of blacklisting this version of the extension in order to protect its users from potential harm.

The decision to blacklist Tampermonkey was made by Opera after careful consideration of the risks associated with the malware-infected version. Malware, short for malicious software, is designed to harm or exploit computer systems. In this case, the Windows malware that is being installed by Tampermonkey could potentially compromise the security and privacy of users’ data, expose them to identity theft, or cause other types of damage.

Blacklisting Tampermonkey means that Opera has added the extension to a list of blocked or restricted software within its browser. When users attempt to install or use Tampermonkey, Opera will prevent it from running or may display a warning message informing them of the potential risks. This measure is intended to protect Opera users from inadvertently installing or using a compromised version of the extension.

The decision to blacklist Tampermonkey is not taken lightly, as browser extensions are often valuable tools that enhance users’ browsing experience. However, in this case, the security risks associated with the infected version of Tampermonkey outweigh the potential benefits it may provide. Opera’s priority is to ensure the safety and security of its users, and blacklisting Tampermonkey is a necessary step in achieving this goal.

It is important to note that the blacklisting of Tampermonkey does not mean that the extension itself is inherently malicious or unsafe. Tampermonkey is a legitimate and widely used browser extension that allows users to customize and enhance their browsing experience by adding scripts to web pages. However, the specific version that is currently available on the Chrome Web Store has been compromised by malware.

To protect yourself from the potential risks associated with Tampermonkey, it is recommended to avoid installing or using the blacklisted version of the extension. Instead, consider alternative browser extensions that offer similar functionality but have not been blacklisted by Opera. Additionally, it is always a good practice to regularly update your browser and run reputable antivirus software to help prevent and detect any potential malware infections.

Tampermonkey has been blacklisted by Opera due to the presence of Windows malware in the version of the extension offered on the Chrome Web Store. This decision was made in order to protect Opera users from potential security risks and to prioritize their safety and privacy. While it is unfortunate that a popular extension like Tampermonkey has been affected, it is important to prioritize security and take appropriate measures to mitigate potential risks.