A recent code change (opens in a new tab) for Google Chrome has uncovered an updated feature that will make the popular web browser automatically prevent unsafe downloads from HTTP sites.
Once the norm, many HTTP sites have upgraded to use HTTPS encryption in an effort to protect the widespread data we share about ourselves across the web.
Now the preferred option, Google has already implemented a number of changes that allow its users to retrieve and share data more securely.
Chrome: HTTP and HTTPS
One of those changes is a recently introduced "Always use secure connections" switch that tells Chrome to upgrade all sites on an HTTP connection to HTTPS. Older HTTP-only sites also display a "Not Secure" warning in the address bar.
The code change spotted by 9To5Google(Opens in a new tab) says that the switcher will now warn users not to download anything from an HTTP connection. Previously, Chrome users received a notification when an HTTPS website downloaded an HTTP-formatted file, known as mixed content.
In keeping with the nature of a toggle button, it will primarily serve as a full prevention warning, allowing users to continue using the web as needed, which in some cases may still mean a less secure HTTP connection.
The update is unlikely to appear in Chrome 111, scheduled for March 2023 for testing, but it could very well be part of the company's next release later in the year.
Google's commitment to its browser, be it security enhancements or other features like the recently announced memory and power saving modes, is being applauded by internet users, to the point that it now accounts for two-thirds (66%). of all installed desktop browsers according to StatCounter(Opens in a new tab).
Microsoft Edge and Apple's Safari trail far behind in second and third place, accounting for around 11% and 10% of the desktop browser market, respectively.