Browser extensions, hailed for their convenience in enhancing online experiences without leaving the tab, are not without their risks. Google Chrome has taken a significant step towards mitigating these concerns with the impending release of Chrome 117.
In an informative blog post by Chrome Developers, Google announced that the upcoming Chrome 117 version will introduce a feature to inform users when an extension they’ve installed becomes unavailable in the Chrome Web Store.
Extensions are typically removed from the Chrome Web Store for one of three reasons: either the developer chose to unpublish it, the extension violated the store’s policies, or it was identified as malicious software.
This development addresses a crucial gap in user protection. In the past, if a user unknowingly installed a malicious extension that was later removed from the store, they were left exposed to risks without any notification.
The scourge of malware-ridden browser extensions is a prevalent issue affecting numerous users. According to cybersecurity firm Kaspersky, over 1.3 million users encountered threats related to browser extensions in the first half of 2022.
Chrome 117 offers a simple solution to this complex problem. By navigating to the “Privacy and security” section within the settings page, users can quickly identify extensions worth reviewing. Clicking the “Review” button will direct users to their extensions list, outlining the reasons behind an extension’s removal from the Chrome Web Store and enabling easy removal from Chrome.
While Chrome 117 is yet to be officially released, the tech community has found a workaround to test its features using Chrome 116. By pasting the link “chrome://flags/#safety-check-extensions” into the browser and enabling the “Extensions Module in Safety Check” feature, users can simulate the upcoming protective mechanisms.
Upon restarting the browser, users can experience firsthand the anticipated safety checks similar to those offered by Chrome 117. This proactive approach underscores Chrome’s commitment to ensuring a secure browsing environment for its users.
