With the latest move concerning downloads, Google is stepping up the game to prevent its users from interacting with HTTP websites.
Starting Chrome v111, users will be blocked from downloading stuff from HTTP websites for good. This option will initially appear for testers in the flags section and a periodic rollout to everyone gradually. Though there are tricks to circumvent this block already, it’s not recommended.
Chrome Blocking Downloads from HTTP Websites
Making the browsing experience more secure, Google is blocking the downloads from any HTTP website going forward. This was reported by 9to5Google based on a new Chrome Gerrit code – which indicates the new feature.
Calling the downloads from HTTP websites insecure, Google adds this new security option to the existing HTTPS section – where Chrome automatically switches your connection to HTTPS whenever you’re visiting an HTTP website.
While it’s still in development, folks at 9to5Google say that we can expect this is coming in March this year – with the Chrome v111 update. To note, this new setting is slightly different from what Chrome browser is already following – blocking all insecure downloads.
For example, any unencrypted downloads and online forms are automatically blocked by Chrome, even if they’re from an HTTPS website. This happens in the case of following an HTTPS download link, but then you’re rerouted to an insecure HTTP server.
And with the new feature, everything that’s coming from an HTTP website is blocked. Initially, this will be available for the beta testers through the Flags section – and eventually to everyone later. While it’s still in baking, 9to5Google has already mentioned the scope for circumventing it too – but a little risker, thus not recommended.
