SOFTWARE DEVELOPER Google is shoring up the security of its Chrome web browser and will soon start blocking extensions.
The firm said that Chrome will block extensions that are not downloaded from its Chrome store, beginning next January.
Google said the move is necessary because of the number of malicious software developers and the number of people who install extensions developed elsewhere than at Google. It said that bad extensions lead to too many problems and complaints.
"Extensions are a great way to enhance the browsing experience; whether users want to quickly post to social networks or to stay up to date with their favorite sports teams. Many services bundle useful companion extensions, which causes Chrome to ask whether you want to install them (or not)," said Chrome engineering director Erik Kay.
"However, bad actors have abused this mechanism, bypassing the prompt to silently install malicious extensions that override browser settings and alter the user experience in undesired ways, such as replacing the New Tab Page without approval. In fact, this is a leading cause of complaints from our Windows users."
From January then, Chrome will block any extension that does not come directly from the Google Chrome store, and developers that maintain Chrome software extensions elsewhere are encouraged to move them as soon as possible.
Users are not expected to be affected, and Kay said that Google will support local extensions development.
"Protecting our users is a key priority, and we believe this change will help those whose browser has been compromised by unwanted extensions," he added.
source: the inquirer
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