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HomeTopics 1Application SecurityChrome Shields Surfers Better: Google Unveils Enhanced Real-Time URL Protection

Chrome Shields Surfers Better: Google Unveils Enhanced Real-Time URL Protection

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Surfing the web can feel like navigating a minefield these days. Phishing attacks are constantly evolving, and even the most cautious clickers can fall victim to cleverly disguised malicious websites.

However, Google recently announced a significant upgrade to Chrome’s security features, offering enhanced real-time URL protection for all users. Let’s delve into how this new feature works and explore additional tips to stay safe online.

Real-Time Defense: Chrome Blocks Threats on the Fly

Previously, Chrome relied on a locally stored database of known malicious sites, updated every 30-60 minutes. This approach left a window of vulnerability, as new phishing websites could emerge and remain undetected for that timeframe. Google’s new real-time URL protection addresses this concern by leveraging server-side checks with privacy-preserving techniques.

Here’s how it works: When you visit a website, Chrome sends a truncated hash of the URL (a scrambled representation that doesn’t reveal the actual address) to a privacy server operated by Google in collaboration with Fastly. This server then forwards the anonymized hash to the Safe Browsing server, which checks it against a constantly updated database of known threats. If a match is found, Chrome displays a warning message, preventing you from potentially visiting a malicious site.

Balancing Security and Privacy: A Collaborative Effort

One of the key strengths of this new feature is its commitment to user privacy. By using anonymized hashes and leveraging a privacy server, Google ensures your actual browsing history remains hidden. Additionally, Google partners with Fastly, a leading edge cloud security provider, to further enhance the security and efficiency of the real-time protection process.

Beyond Real-Time Protection: 10 Tips for Secure Browsing

While Google’s enhanced real-time protection is a welcome improvement, it’s crucial to remember that layered security is essential for comprehensive online safety. Here are 10 additional tips to keep you safe while browsing:

  1. Suspicious Links? Beware!: Don’t click on links or attachments in emails or messages from unknown senders, even if they appear legitimate.
  2. Hover Before You Click: Before clicking a link, hover your mouse over it to see the actual destination URL. This can help identify disguised phishing attempts.
  3. Double-Check Website Addresses: Pay close attention to the URL when logging into any website. Typos or inconsistencies might indicate a phishing attempt.
  4. Strong & Unique Passwords: Utilize strong and unique passwords for all online accounts and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever available.
  5. Keep Software Updated: Maintain up-to-date versions of your browser, operating system, and security software to address newly discovered vulnerabilities.
  6. Beware of Free Downloads: Be cautious when downloading software or freebies from untrusted sources. These downloads might contain malware.
  7. Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software: Install and maintain reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on your devices.
  8. Security Extensions (Use Wisely): Consider using security extensions for your browser, but be selective and only install extensions from trusted sources.
  9. Think Before You Share: Be mindful of what information you share online, especially on social media platforms.
  10. Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest cybersecurity threats by following reputable security blogs and news outlets.

Conclusion

Google’s enhanced real-time URL protection represents a significant step forward for online safety in Chrome. By combining this new feature with a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity hygiene, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to phishing attacks and navigate the web with greater confidence. Remember, online safety is a shared responsibility. By adopting these practices, we can all contribute to a safer online environment.

Ouaissou DEMBELE
Ouaissou DEMBELEhttp://cybercory.com
Ouaissou DEMBELE is a seasoned cybersecurity expert with over 12 years of experience, specializing in purple teaming, governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC). He currently serves as Co-founder & Group CEO of Sainttly Group, a UAE-based conglomerate comprising Saintynet Cybersecurity, Cybercory.com, and CISO Paradise. At Saintynet, where he also acts as General Manager, Ouaissou leads the company’s cybersecurity vision—developing long-term strategies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and guiding clients in identifying and mitigating evolving threats. As CEO, his mission is to empower organizations with resilient, future-ready cybersecurity frameworks while driving innovation, trust, and strategic value across Sainttly Group’s divisions. Before founding Saintynet, Ouaissou held various consulting roles across the MEA region, collaborating with global organizations on security architecture, operations, and compliance programs. He is also an experienced speaker and trainer, frequently sharing his insights at industry conferences and professional events. Ouaissou holds and teaches multiple certifications, including CCNP Security, CEH, CISSP, CISM, CCSP, Security+, ITILv4, PMP, and ISO 27001, in addition to a Master’s Diploma in Network Security (2013). Through his deep expertise and leadership, Ouaissou plays a pivotal role at Cybercory.com as Editor-in-Chief, and remains a trusted advisor to organizations seeking to elevate their cybersecurity posture and resilience in an increasingly complex threat landscape.

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