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Coupon extensions can save time, but they need broad browser permissions to work. Here's what that means, how they make money, and how to use one more safely so you can decide for yourself.
Key takeaways
- Most shopping extensions ask to "read and change data on the websites you visit," which can include the pages you open.
- They're free because they earn affiliate commissions from stores, and some use aggregated shopping data.
- Install only from official stores, limit site access, use one at a time and remove ones you don't use.
- If you're uncomfortable with the access, you can get most of the savings manually.
What these extensions typically can see
To detect checkout pages and test codes, most shopping extensions request permission to "read and change data on the websites you visit." In practice that can include the pages you open and what's on them. Many companies say they collect shopping-related data such as product pages, prices and purchases, and use it to find deals and earn commissions from retailers. Read each extension's privacy policy for the specifics.
Permissions in plain English
| Permission prompt | What it lets the extension do |
|---|---|
| Read and change data on all websites | See and modify any page you open while it's allowed to run |
| Read your browsing history | See the list of sites you've visited |
| Display notifications | Show pop-ups about deals |
| Manage your downloads or other extensions | Rarely needed for coupons; treat as a red flag |
How they make money
Most free coupon tools earn affiliate commissions from retailers when you buy, and some use aggregated shopping data. That's why they're free. It's the same affiliate model this site uses (see the disclosure above). Some extensions have been criticized for replacing other affiliates' tracking at checkout. That doesn't cost you money directly, but it's worth knowing that the extension's business is the commission, not only your savings.
How to use one more safely
- Install only from the official store (Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons, Apple App Store for Safari extensions). Copycat extensions exist.
- Check the publisher, reviews and user count. A big-name tool with millions of users and a clear privacy policy is a safer bet than an unknown one.
- Limit site access. Chrome and Safari let you restrict an extension to run only on click or on specific sites. On iPhone, go to Settings, then Apps, then Safari, then Extensions (or Settings, Safari, Extensions on older iOS) and set website access.
- Use just one. Several coupon extensions at once multiply the data shared and can conflict.
- Remove ones you don't use.
How to restrict an extension in Chrome
- Click the puzzle-piece icon to the right of the address bar.
- Click the three dots next to the extension and choose "This can read and change site data."
- Pick "When you click the extension" or "On specific sites."
- Turn it on only when you're at a checkout page.
Known examples
Capital One Shopping, Honey (owned by PayPal) and RetailMeNot are widely used. Each has its own privacy policy and data practices, so compare them. You don't need a Capital One card to use Capital One Shopping.
For cashback rather than coupon codes, ShopBack (US) is a cashback service that works on the web, in iOS and Android apps, and as a browser extension for Chrome, Edge and mobile Safari. The extension reminds you on partner stores so you can activate cashback before you check out. Cashback shows as pending until the store confirms the order (returns or cancellations reverse it). Once you have at least $5 confirmed, you can withdraw by PayPal or bank transfer. Rates vary by store, and using another coupon or cashback extension in the same checkout can stop it tracking. Like any shopping extension, it needs access to the store pages you visit, so the safety tips above apply. Its cookies notice explains how it tracks purchases.
Explore ShopBack cashback (US)
US only.
We may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. The ShopBack link is sponsored.
Warning signs of a risky extension
- It asks for permissions unrelated to shopping, such as managing other extensions.
- It changes your search engine or home page.
- It has few reviews, a vague publisher name or no privacy policy.
- It injects ads into sites that don't normally show them.
- Your browser warns that it was removed from the store or contains malware.
Bottom line
A reputable extension from an official store is a reasonable trade-off for many shoppers, but it's not risk-free. If you're uncomfortable with the access, you can get most of the benefit manually with the tips in how to find coupon codes that work. For cashback versus card rewards, see cashback apps vs. credit card rewards.
Frequently asked questions
Can coupon extensions steal my credit card information?
Reputable extensions say they don't collect payment details, but any extension with access to checkout pages technically can read what's on them. That's why it matters to install only well-known extensions from official stores and to limit their site access.
Is Honey safe to use?
Honey is owned by PayPal and is available from official browser stores. It collects shopping data and earns affiliate commissions, as described in its privacy policy. Whether that trade-off is acceptable is a personal choice.
Do coupon extensions actually save money?
Sometimes. They test known codes automatically, but often no working code exists. They save the most time at stores that issue codes frequently.
How do I remove a browser extension?
In Chrome, right-click the extension's icon and choose "Remove from Chrome." In Safari on a Mac, open Settings, then Extensions, and uninstall it. On iPhone, delete the app that provided the Safari extension.
Want all of this on one page? Our printable savings checklist sums up the 12 core tips. It unlocks after you try a sponsored app, so skip it if you'd rather not. Unlock the checklist (sponsored).