The Google Chrome team has integrated the AI-powered Enhanced Protection feature into the browser, designed to provide real-time protection to users against dangerous sites, downloads, and extensions. Part of the Safe Browsing system, the feature has been available on all platforms after three months of testing in the Canary channel. However, when actively used, it transmits data about the sites you visit to Google.
Image source: Rubaitul Azad / Unsplash
Previously, this feature was called Proactive Protection, but its updated name highlights the integration of AI into the browser’s security system. It is currently unclear how exactly the new AI-integrated feature differs from its previous non-AI version. However, it is possible that Google is using machine learning algorithms to analyze behavior patterns in real time, allowing it to warn you about potentially dangerous sites, even if they have not been previously detected.
Enhanced AI protection in Chrome Stable. Image source: BleepingComputer
According to Google, the protection system, equipped with modern AI algorithms, conducts in-depth scanning of downloaded files, which allows for the rapid detection of suspicious downloads, and also improves the accuracy and effectiveness of the browser’s security system. Enhanced AI protection is disabled by default, but users can enable it by going to Settings → Privacy and security → Security in Google Chrome on Windows, Android, and iOS.