No matter how web browser makers claim to have baked the highest level of security into their products, the browsers can only be as safe as their third-party extensions most of the time. That is why it's important to put in place a vetting process for these extensions and provide a transparent way for users to know which of these add-ons have undergone inspection.
Later this summer, Mozilla will be rolling out its Recommended Extensions program which aims to give more visibility to extensions that pass Mozilla's vetting process. The goal is to help users find the add-ons that effectively deliver their promise, provide an intuitive user experience, relevance to Firefox users in general, and offer a high level of security. Once the program kicks off, users may give suggestions for extensions they want to be counted in.
The release will occur in phases and vetted extensions will appear with distinct badges across Mozilla's websites and products, including addons.mozilla.org. Hundreds of curated extensions are slated for rollout as part of the program and the add-ons page will start reflecting some changes by the end of June. Additionally, personalized recommendations will appear on the “Get Add-ons” page in the Firefox Add-ons Manager based on the recommended extensions.
The program is part of Mozilla's broader effort to keep its browser extensions safe for Firefox users. In February, the organization announced changes to its platform including helping users gauge the risks associated with extensions, making untested extensions less visible, and highlighting vetted add-ons across its ecosystem.
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