Chrome blocks non-approved extensions

Published July 27, 2012 12:23am

Google is tightening security for its Chrome browser by cracking down on extensions that do not go through its Chrome Web Store.

PC World reported this is a major change from the past when any website can install extensions without user intervention.

"In the latest version of Google Chrome, you must explicitly tell Chrome that you want to install these extensions by adding them through the Extensions page," Google said.

Google added hackers may create websites that automatically trigger the installation of such malicious extensions.

Such extensions are often designed to secretly track the information a user enters on the web, it added.

PC World said anyone who tries to add an extension outside the Web Store will see the message, "Extensions, apps, and user scripts can only be added from the Chrome Web Store."

It added people or companies hosting legitimate extensions on their own websites will need to add these to the Store or use inline installation. — TJD, GMA News

Tags: google, googlechrome