Google is revamping its approach to alerting Chrome users about suspicious files. The company is introducing new full-page warnings and cloud scanning for downloads, a move designed to offer more detailed explanations for blocked files. This enhanced system, powered by AI models, will categorize warnings into two categories: “suspicious” or “dangerous.” The primary beneficiaries of this update are users who have enabled the Enhanced Protection feature, designed to combat phishing.
The new system leverages cloud scanning for suspicious files, significantly boosting the detection rate for malware. Files uploaded to the cloud for automated scanning are 50 times more likely to be flagged as malware by the AI system. Chrome now also prompts users to scan encrypted .zip files with passwords in the cloud, requiring users to enter their password for the AI system to analyze the content. For users with the default settings, local scanning will continue to take place.
This change aims to minimize user complacency and encourage prompt action when dealing with potentially harmful files. The full-page warnings present users with clear options: revert to safety or proceed despite the warning. Google even goes a step further by asking users to justify their decision to continue a download. Users can choose from options like “I created this file,” “I trust the site,” or “I’m willing to accept the risk.”
This security enhancement follows a pattern of Google bolstering Chrome’s security features over time. Notable additions include Enhanced Safe Browsing, real-time phishing protection, stricter download warnings, Enterprise controls, and improved sandboxing. This news follows Google’s recent decision to discontinue its default blocking of third-party cookies, another privacy initiative on the web.