Google has now added a new feature to its Chrome browser that automatically warns users when malicious software is tampering with their settings. Google VP of engineering Linus Upson, announced the update recently on the Google Chrome Blog. The new feature is designed to update and enhance one introduced in the Fall of last year that allows Chrome users to easily reset browser settings back to their original state.
Hijackers can introduce malicious code through free software downloads and things of that nature that alter Chrome settings, as you may know. Typically they introduce ads and other methods of monetization into your daily web browsing and then lock you out so you can't revert back to the factory settings.
Upson explains that even though Google introduced the revert function last October, settings hijacking remained the company's "number one user complaint." He goes on to say the feature will prompt "Windows users whose settings appear to have been changed" to set the system back to the factory default by clicking "Reset" when the window seen below appears:
Upson also notes that this command will disable any browser extensions and apps you may be running. Users will have to manually reactivate Extensions through the "More Tools" menu, but apps will automatically be available next time you go to use them.
Google says that some settings hijackers will leave code around that will engage a second attack immediately after the first one has been rectified. In this case Google suggests heading over to the Chrome help forums for information on how to remove said programs and also to remember that the "Reset" settings feature is always an option even if the auto prompt doesn't come up.
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