Google has announced that it will no longer be allowing browser cryptomining extensions from the Chrome Web Store.
In a blog published Monday, Google announced that it would no longer accept cryptomining extensions, or any browser extension that mines any cryptocurrency.
According to the company, they have observed a significant rise in malicious extensions over the past few months. These extensions allegedly offer useful functionalities on the surface. However, they were found to have been embedding hidden cryptocurrency mining scripts that operate in the background without the knowledge of unsuspecting users.
Current Chrome Web Store policy allows developers to publish their extensions, including cryptomining extensions, as long as their purpose is clearly stated and users will be adequately informed.
Unfortunately, Google found that around 90 percent of all browser extensions related to cryptomining published in the Chrome Store failed to comply with these policies. This left the company with no choice but to remove the said mining extensions.
Read More: Popular Cryptocurrency Monero Mining Malware Found on Government Websites
“Starting today, Chrome Web Store will no longer accept extensions that mine cryptocurrency. Existing extensions that mine cryptocurrency will be delisted from the Chrome Web Store in late June. Extensions with blockchain-related purposes other than mining will continue to be permitted in the Web Store,” Google said.
The company also stated that their extensions platform is aimed at helping developers build a “vibrant catalog of extensions” to provide users with a better Chrome experience. But, the platform’s capabilities were exploited by malicious software developers who wanted to use it to take advantage of innocent users.
Google now hopes that this new policy will help ensure that all Google Chrome users will be able to enjoy the benefits of the browser without exposing themselves to unforeseen risks.
Do you believe that Google’s new policy will prevent miners from embedding hidden cryptomining extensions in your browser?
The post Google Bans all Cryptomining Extensions From Chrome Web Store appeared first on Edgy Labs.
