Google bans cryptomining extensions from Chrome Web Store

Google is banning all cryptocurrency mining browser extensions from the Chrome Web Store. "Starting today, Chrome Web Store will no longer accept extensions that mine cryptocurrency. Existing extensions that mine cryptocurrency will be delisted from the Chrome Web Store in late June. Extensions with blockchain-related purposes other than mining will continue to be permitted in the Web Store," the search engine giant said in a blog post.

The tech giant stated that this policy is a step forward in ensuring that Chrome users can enjoy the benefits of extensions without exposing themselves to hidden risks.

James Wagner, Extensions Platform Product Manager, Chrome Web Store added, "Unfortunately, approximately 90 percent of all extensions with mining scripts that developers have attempted to upload to Chrome Web Store has failed to comply with these policies, and have been either rejected or removed from the store."

Existing apps and extensions on the Chrome Web Store that have been listed in the past will also be removed. Chrome app users will undoubtedly be informed that all crypto mining extensions were banned and that they should probably just go ahead and delete what they’ve downloaded in the past. In the near future, none shall pass.

Recently, Twitter and Facebook also announced that it is blocking all cryptocurrency related ads on its platform including Bitcoin and ICOs.