New Google Chrome Feature to Warn Users About Potential Malicious Extensions

In its latest announcement Google revealed that Chrome users will now be notified about extensions that have either been removed, marked as malware, or are unpublished by the developer.

These forms of extensions are created by developers with dubious intent and are used for nefarious purposes like collecting browser data, launching adware, or redirecting users to phishing pages.

Keeping in mind its commitment towards protecting users as well as boosting the security associated with its web browser ecosystem, the company is said to feature this new update as part of Chrome 117.

The feature ‘’Safety Check’’ once enabled will be a part of ‘’Privacy and Security’’ settings section and will prompt users to review extensions that have been removed from the Google Web Store.

According to the announcement, the notification will automatically clear once the issue is resolved. This system will not only reassure but also give both the users and developers time to review and address the problem. By doing this, the tech company hopes to reduce any adverse impact on genuine extension.

‘’The notification will not be displayed for an extension when the developer has been notified of a possible violation and has been given time to address the issue or appeal, the statement read. [..] ‘’When a user clicks “Review,” they will be taken to their extensions and given the choice to either remove the extension or hide the warning if they wish to keep the extension installed,’’ it further stated.

The previous versions of Chrome are known to automatically disable extensions marked as malwares.

Moreover, the company in the coming months is also planning to roll out additional safety warning features in Chrome. Users when downloading high-risk files will now be warned, especially when they are connected to insecure connections.