Google Chrome now asks for passwords to scan protected archives

Google Chrome now asks for passwords to scan protected archives

July 25, 2024 at 11:26AM

Google Chrome now features a two-tier warning system for downloaded files using AI-powered malware verdicts. The new warnings provide more information about the potential danger, improving user discretion and protection. Enhanced Protection mode prompts users to enter passwords for deeper scanning, providing extra security and data privacy. These updates aim to enhance user behavior, reduce bypassed warnings, and offer better protection from malicious downloads.

Based on the meeting notes, here are the key takeaways:

1. Google Chrome has introduced a two-tier download warning system that uses AI-powered malware verdicts from its Safe Browsing service to quickly evaluate the risk of downloaded files.

2. The new warning messages aim to provide users with more detailed information about potentially malicious downloaded files, helping them understand the nature of the danger presented by each file.

3. Users will now see warnings for suspicious files and dangerous files, distinguished by iconography, color, and text, to assist them in making informed choices based on the level of risk and Safe Browsing’s certainty.

4. Chrome’s Enhanced Protection mode enables deeper scanning of suspicious files on the company’s servers, providing extra protection while reducing user friction.

5. When downloading password-protected archives, users with Enhanced Protection enabled are prompted to enter the password before sending the file for additional scanning via Google’s Safe Browsing service.

6. Google assures that files and file passwords uploaded to its servers will be promptly deleted after scanning and the collected data will only be used to enhance download protection for all Chrome users.

7. Companies are cautious about providing Chrome with passwords for password-protected archives containing corporate data, as they may train employees not to do so to prevent potential data leaks.

8. These improvements in clarity and consistency have resulted in significant changes in user behavior, including fewer warnings bypassed, warnings heeded more quickly, and overall better protection from malicious downloads.

Overall, the meeting notes highlight the enhancements made to Google Chrome’s download warning system and the additional protection measures introduced for password-protected files, while also addressing concerns related to corporate data security.

Full Article