Google tightens Chrome store policy to ensure user privacy

Google is tightening Chrome Store policies to better protect browser users’ privacy. The company has set certain requirements for developers and has announced that it will remove apps from the Chrome store that do not meet the new requirements from July 15.

In a blog post, Google explains that it has itself been protecting the privacy of users for some time with features such as the incognito mode and privacy preferences. Now the company wants to make these demands also on the developers of Chrome apps that can be downloaded in the store. To achieve that, Google has adjusted its user data policy.

For example, apps must clearly indicate how they handle personal data and clarify their policy. They can do this, for example, on the basis of a privacy policy. In addition, personal data and other sensitive information must be encrypted. This is possible, for example, with tls, except for the versions that are blacklisted by the IETF.

The company also instructs developers to obtain user consent before processing personal data, insofar as this data is not processed in the context of an important function of the app. Also, users’ browsing activity should not be tracked unless it is necessary for the core functionality of an extension. Violation of the rules will remove an app from the Chrome store and the only way to undo it is by following the policy.

Google does not explain how apps will be monitored, for example by the company itself or by users who report an extension. Google’s requirements are broadly in line with the rules on personal data arising from European law. For example, the European Parliament officially sealed the arrival of the new data protection regulation on Thursday. This will come into effect in 2018.