Blockchain utilization

Google Ban Thickens, Removes Crypto Mining Scripts From Chrome Store

Google has revealed it is banning all forms of mining extensions from the Chrome Web Store, saying it has it has already blocked 90% of Chrome browser cryptocurrency mining extensions due to their non-compliance to Google policy. The move, according to observer is to guard against cryptojacking.

Google’s recent announcement is coming after Facebook, Twitter and Mailchimp maintained their ban on Crypto-related advertisement saying they all aim at regulating the cyberspace from fraudulent ads.

On April 2nd, 2018, Google declared there will be no new cryptocurrency mining extensions on the Chrome Store.

“As the extensions ecosystem continues to evolve, we remain focused on empowering developers to build innovative experiences while keeping our users as safe as possible.”

The statement added that any remaining extension will be removed from the store in June. Google says it noticed increasing malicious extension with people thinking they are useful, not knowing they usurp a great amount of CPU resources, thereby lowering the functions and performance of the system without the user knowing.

“Over the past few months, there has been a rise in malicious extensions that appear to provide useful functionality on the surface, while embedding hidden cryptocurrency mining scripts that run in the background without the user’s consent.”

Google had in the past agreed that designer upload mining extension on Chrome Store only if users of the extension were informed of the activities and if the apps were used for mining alone. However, most of the applications fall below the stipulated policy of Google.

According to the Chromium post, “90% of all extensions with mining scripts that developers have attempted to upload to Chrome Web Store have failed to comply with these policies, and have been either rejected or removed from the store.”

The new policy, according to Google will give opportunity to users to use the store without exposing themselves to risks.

“This policy is another step forward in ensuring that Chrome users can enjoy the benefits of extensions without exposing themselves to hidden risks.”

There seems to be a complete clamp down on cryptocurrencies and ICO, especially with big advertisement companies, claiming through body languages, that they pose more threat to users.

Many a number of observers are of the opinion that cryptocurrencies needs regulations to make them reliably acceptable without the need for fear.