After it blocked 90% of all Chrome browser cryptocurrency mining extensions for not complying to its new policy, Google now banned all mining extensions from the Chrome Web Store.

Protective Measures for Extension Cryptojacking

On April 2nd, 2018, the company made an announcement which said that no new cryptocurrency mining extensions will be added to the Chrome Web Store to be used with Google’s Chrome browser. The announcement also reads:

”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.”

Any remaining extensions that mine digital currencies will be removed from the Chrome Web Store in June. On the other hand, blockchain-related applications for other practices will be allowed.

Increase in Malware Extensions

“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.”

The Chromium Blog agrees that mining scripts use up a great deal of CPU resources and affect system performance and power consumption.

90% of Uploaded Applications Do Not Comply

Prior to this, the Chrome Web Store permitted cryptocurrency mining extensions if the application was used only for mining and if the user was informed about the mining actions. But a great percentage of extensions did not meet the store’s requirements.

”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,” notes the blog.

Google claims that the developer possibilities in the Chrome extensions platform have attracted malicious software creators, who try to exploit the platform and profit from unsuspecting users.

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

This latest move comes after Google announced that it will ban ICO and cryptocurrency related ads on its YouTube and display-ads network starting from June 2018. Facebook, Twitter, and Mailchimp have also started banning cryptocurrency advert for similar reasons.