In response to the escalating pace of cyberattacks, Google has announced the integration of real-time Safe Browsing protections into Chrome for desktop and iOS devices.
The new feature aims to provide immediate warnings to users encountering potentially hazardous websites, enhancing their online security.
Safe Browsing, which already shields over 5 billion devices worldwide from phishing, malware, and other risks, issues over 3 million warnings to users about potential dangers every day.
Previously, the Standard protection mode relied on a locally stored list to identify potentially risky sites. However, given that malicious sites often exist for less than 10 minutes, Google recognized the need for real-time monitoring.
From now on, Chrome on desktop and iOS will now cross-reference sites against Google’s continuously updated list of known hazardous websites, offering immediate warnings when necessary. This enhancement is expected to thwart 25% more phishing attempts.
Importantly, the new feature prioritizes user privacy, employing encryption and privacy-enhancing techniques to ensure anonymity during browsing. This development will extend to Android devices later this month, promising a seamless and secure browsing experience.
In addition to bolstering Safe Browsing, Chrome for iOS introduces an update to Password Checkup. Alongside identifying compromised passwords, the tool now flags weak and reused passwords, enhancing overall password security.
Users will receive alerts whenever a password issue is detected, with the option to perform manual checks through the Safety Check feature in Chrome Settings.
The new features are now rolling out to all Google Chrome users on iPhones, iPads, and desktop worldwide.
