Security News > 2023 > August > Chrome will tell users when extensions they use are removed from Chrome Web Store

Google will be extending the Safety check feature within the Chrome browser to alert users when a previously installed extension is no longer available in the Chrome Web Store.

Starting in Chrome 117, which is due to be released in September 2023, the browser will highlight if an extension they use has been unpublished by the developer, has been taken down for violating Chrome Web Store policy, or has been labeled as malware.

Clicking on the "Review" button will take the user to a list of extensions that have been removed from the Chrome Web Store.

"We have designed this change to keep the ecosystem safe for users while limiting the chances that this will impact genuine extensions. If an issue is resolved, the notification is automatically cleared," said Oliver Dunk, developer relations engineer for Chrome extensions.

Google has set out strict rules for developers when submitting new extensions to the Chrome Web Store.

In late April, Google has made available Spin.AI App Risk Assessment, a tool Google Workspace admins and security teams can use to assess the risk different Chrome extensions may pose to their users and their organization.

News URL

https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2023/08/21/chrome-extension-safety-check/