Google has just put in motion a new Web Store policy regarding Chrome extensions that mine cryptocurrency. There has been a significant uptick in malicious extensions, and the technology giant has decided to ban any such extension that harms users.
Developers Failed to Comply – Google Is Banning Their Mining Extensions
Until recently, only extensions that were exclusively designed for mining and were informing users in advance for this were allowed on Chrome Web Store. Until now, Chrome Web Store policy has permitted cryptocurrency mining in extensions as long as it is the extension’s single purpose, and the user is adequately informed about the mining behavior, the company said.
However, it turns out that nearly 90 percent of the extensions that contain mining scripts failed to comply with Google’s policies. These extensions were either rejected or removed from the store.
As a result of the developers’ failure to follow the rules, the tech giant’s browser will no longer accept extensions designed to mine cryptocurrencies. Furthermore, even the existing mining extensions will be removed from the web store, and this will be done in late June.
“The extensions platform provides powerful capabilities that have enabled our developer community to build a vibrant catalog of extensions that help users get the most out of Chrome,” Google added.
As to why Google is taking such extreme measures – the versatile character of the platform and the capabilities it offers have been widely abused by malicious developers at the expense of users. The changes about to be implemented serve to ensure that Chrome users will stay safe while using the browser and its variety of extensions.
This is yet another step that the tech giant has taken towards making their users feel more protected while browsing with Chrome. In February it was announced that any web page lacking a security certificate (HTTPS) and being served over HTTP is going to be marked as unsecure by the Chrome browser. The change is expected to take place in July this year.
Milena Dimitrova
An inspired writer and content manager who has been with SensorsTechForum since the project started. A professional with 10+ years of experience in creating engaging content. Focused on user privacy and malware development, she strongly believes in a world where cybersecurity plays a central role. If common sense makes no sense, she will be there to take notes. Those notes may later turn into articles! Follow Milena @Milenyim
Follow Me: