Google is now removing support for Google Chrome Extensions from outside of Web store. Previously, any website could host their chrome extensions and could prompt users ti install. This is option is no longer available.
This step is being taken for the users’ security. Google want to keep uses safe. So it is scanning and removing malicious extensions from the store. But Google can not scan and check extensions hosted on other websites. So it does not want to take any kind of risk.
If users want to add extension from other source, Google has given an option. They need to download it to their computer, then go to the Extensions page in Chrome and load it manually.
Google said,” For instance, online hackers may create websites that automatically trigger the installation of malicious extensions. Their extensions are often designed to secretly track the information you enter on the web, which the hackers can then reuse for other ill-intended purposes.”
“The updated installation process prevents websites from automatically triggering unauthorized extension installations and gives you more control over the extensions you’re adding to Chrome,” it added.
Google also suggested developers to host their extensions in web store. Google said, “If you currently host an extension on your website, consider uploading it to the Chrome Web Store. Visit the Google Developers website to see more information on uploading items to the Chrome Web Store and use inline install so users can install your extension without leaving your site.”
Uploading extension on Chrome web store is a better way to reach to the potential users. Web store is built into the browser which is used by more than 350 million users. If you are hosting extension on your website, you will only reach to those users who ever came to your website. Your extension will be easy to find if it is hosted into web store.
