Google Chrome 117browser will upgrade security to remind users to delete dangerous extensions

CTOnews.com Google Chrome browser can install various extensions to enhance features and experiences, but some extensions may have security risks, such as being removed by developers, violating Google Store policies or being marked as malware. To keep users safe, Google plans to add a new feature to the next version of the browser that proactively alerts users to extensions that aren't in the Google Store.

CTOnews.com notes that according to Oliver Dunk, Google Extension Developer Relations Engineer, in an article, this new feature will be added in Chrome version 117 and will make it easier for users to discover removed extensions. In the browser settings, there is a "Safety check" section that shows which extensions have been removed. Users can click Review and choose to delete extensions or ignore warnings. As with previous versions, extensions marked as malware are automatically disabled, Dunk said.

Google also said Chrome will automatically upgrade all URLs that start with http://to https://, a more secure protocol that encrypts users 'web traffic. Chrome attempts to upgrade even if users click on links that explicitly state http://. If the upgrade fails, Chrome falls back to http://. Google says the feature is being tested in Chrome 115 (the stable version is Chrome 116) and plans to roll out to all users "soon."

Google also said Chrome will display warnings if users download "high-risk files" on insecure connections, which are expected to start rolling out in mid-September.