Google is exploring the possibility of expanding security, so that it protects Chrome users from any and all potentially insecure HTTP downloads. This is according to a recent code change and accompanying explanation. With this feature, downloads are blocked from any connection, including those associated with unsecure websites, in addition to the existing mixed content download protections.
Google Chrome plans to block suspicious downloads from HTTP websites in an effort to improve online security for its users. The popular web browser will block all file downloads that originate from HTTP websites, with the exception of top-level navigation.
This change is intended to prevent users from accidentally downloading malicious software or other potentially harmful content. HTTP websites, which do not use encrypted connections, are more vulnerable to cyber attacks and can be used to spread malware and other harmful content.
Google Chrome has been encouraging the use of HTTPS, which uses encrypted connections, for several years now. This latest move is just one more step in their efforts to improve online security for all users.
The change will not affect downloads from HTTPS websites, which are considered more secure. However, users who still need to download files from HTTP websites will have the option to manually override the block and proceed with the download at their own risk.
Additionally, the company has created a new toggle in Chrome’s security settings that automatically attempts to upgrade you to HTTPS if you accidentally navigate to an insecure website. A warning appears on the screen if a secure version is not available.
Overall, this change is a welcome addition to Google Chrome’s already robust security measures and will help to keep users safe.
While this change will undoubtedly improve online security for many users, it may also cause some inconvenience for those who regularly download files from HTTP websites. These users will need to manually override the block in order to proceed with the download, which may be a time-consuming process.
There are also concerns that this change may disproportionately impact small businesses and websites that have not yet made the switch to HTTPS. These websites may see a decrease in traffic as users are blocked from downloading content.
Despite these potential drawbacks, the move to block suspicious downloads from HTTP websites is a necessary step in improving online security. As the internet becomes increasingly central to our daily lives, it is important for companies like Google to take proactive measures to protect users from cyber threats.
In the future, it is likely that more and more websites will make the switch to HTTPS in order to remain accessible to users. Until then, Google Chrome’s decision to block suspicious downloads from HTTP websites will help to keep its users safe as they navigate the web.
Initially, this new security feature will only be available in Chrome’s experimental version, which is currently in development. This feature will available only after activating the #block insecure downloads flag on the chrome:/flags page. It contains a list of all experimental features.
