CHROME TO BLOCK NEW TAB HIJACKER EXTENSIONS

The upcoming Chrome feature targets a common tactic where extensions, often installed through corporate policies or bundled software, alter critical browser settings without user consent. Under the new protection, policy-installed extensions would be restricted from modifying the New Tab page and default search engine behavior. This prevents users from encountering unexpected homepage changes or forced search redirects. The feature represents Google's continued effort to tighten Chrome's security model. Similar restrictions have been implemented in recent versions, including limitations on extension capabilities and improved user controls over extension permissions. Users would retain the ability to manually change these settings themselves. The restriction specifically targets automated modifications through extensions, not direct user actions. No timeline for rollout has been announced. The feature is currently in development and will likely appear in future Chrome releases.