Google Chrome to Block New Tab Hijacker Extensions on Unmanaged Devices

Google is set to implement a new security feature in Chrome that will block extensions using local enterprise policies to hijack the New Tab page or default search engine on unmanaged Windows and macOS devices. This measure aims to combat malware that disguises itself as administrator-installed software, preventing users from removing it. The feature, currently under review, will automatically cancel the installation of such extensions and prevent future attempts. Chrome will also save the extension ID in a blocked-extension preference to reduce unnecessary network activity. Users will retain control over manually installed extensions, and previously managed devices will have affected extensions uninstalled if they lose their management status. Google plans to measure the frequency of these hijacking attempts and blocks. The feature is not yet available in stable Chrome versions.

Key Points: • Google Chrome will block extensions that hijack the New Tab page on unmanaged devices. • Malware often disguises itself as administrator-installed extensions, preventing user removal. • The feature is currently under review and not yet available in stable Chrome.