Chrome Web Store crackdown for August 2020

scorpionv

Level 2
Thread author
Apr 20, 2020
87
Google announced today new rules for the Chrome Web Store in an attempt to cut down the number of shady Chrome extensions submitted and listed on the site.

Starting August 27, Google says it intends to enforce a new set of rules, which will result in a large number of extensions being delisted. These rules are meant to crack down on a series of practices extension developers have been recently employing to flood the Web Store with shady extensions or boost install counts for low-quality content. They include:

  • Developers cannot submit duplicate extensions anymore. (e.g. Wallpaper extensions that have different names but provide the user with the same wallpapers when installed.)
  • Extensions are not allowed to use "keyword spam" techniques to flood metadata fields with multiple terms and have the extension listed across multiple categories to improve the extension's visibility in search results.
  • Developers are not allowed to use misleading, improperly formatted, non-descriptive, irrelevant, excessive, or inappropriate metadata. Extension metadata needs to be accurate, and Google intends to be strict about it.
  • Developers are now forbidden from inflating product ratings, reviews, or install counts by illegitimate means, such as fraudulent or paid downloads, reviews, and ratings.
  • Extensions that have only one purpose, such as launching a web page or an app, are not allowed anymore.
  • Extensions that abuse browser notifications to spam users with ads or other messages have also been banned.
More on TheVerge: Google announces changes to Chrome Web Store policies to help fight spammy extensions
 

Ink

Administrator
Verified
Staff Member
Well-known
Jan 8, 2011
22,361
Not a developer, but do Google actually set any rules when they first launch new products/services?

And why only now?
 
  • Like
Reactions: oldschool

About us

  • MalwareTips is a community-driven platform providing the latest information and resources on malware and cyber threats. Our team of experienced professionals and passionate volunteers work to keep the internet safe and secure. We provide accurate, up-to-date information and strive to build a strong and supportive community dedicated to cybersecurity.

User Menu

Follow us

Follow us on Facebook or Twitter to know first about the latest cybersecurity incidents and malware threats.

Top