Chrome adds additional security measures such as warning messages and cloud scanning for potentially dangerous downloads

Google has recently made updates to the suspicious file warnings displayed by Chrome in an effort to provide users with clearer explanations for why a potentially dangerous file download may have been blocked. In addition to this, Google has also made changes to its anti-phishing Enhanced Protection feature, which involves the scanning of suspicious files in the cloud.

One significant update to the file warning system is the automatic scanning of files that are sent for deep scans. Google states that files that undergo deep scans are now 50 times more likely to be marked as malware. This shift to automatic scanning is aimed at enhancing user protection and improving overall security measures.

Another important update relates to the scanning of encrypted archive files, such as .zip files that are password protected. In light of various targeted cookie theft attacks on platforms like YouTube channels and other groups, Google has added a prompt that requests the password for these files. By entering the password, users allow Google’s AI system to open and scan the files in the cloud. However, for users with default settings, the files will be scanned locally using existing malware definitions.

These updates are currently live in the latest Chrome releases and aim to improve the overall browsing experience for users. The new warning messages are designed to be more precise and informative, classifying downloads as either “suspicious” or “dangerous” based on the level of risk determined by Google’s AI models. This more nuanced approach has led to users responding to the warnings more consistently and taking appropriate actions accordingly.

Overall, these updates by Google represent a step forward in ensuring user safety by providing clearer explanations for blocked file downloads and enhancing protection against phishing attacks. By automating deep scans and prompting users to enter passwords for encrypted archive files, Google aims to strengthen security measures and mitigate the risks associated with potential malware. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for companies like Google to adapt and improve their security features to protect users from emerging threats in the ever-changing digital landscape.



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