Chrome users now have a very easy way to keep their searches and suggestions private by default. The Google Chrome browser will now encrypt your searches automatically using extensions offered by Google.
Google’s SSL Web Search (beta) extension provides the same kind of encrypted searches safe from third parties as you’d get by visiting : encrypted.google.com
How SSL Encryption Works
SSL, or Secure Sockets Layer, is a standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a server and a client—typically a web server (website) and a browser, or a mail server and a mail client (e.g., Outlook). This link ensures that all data passed between the web server and browsers remain private and integral. When you use Google’s SSL Web Search extension, your search queries are encrypted, making it significantly harder for third parties to intercept and read your data. This is particularly important when using public Wi-Fi networks, where data can be more easily intercepted.
Installing the required extensions into your copy of Chrome creates a new search engine that automatically now encrypts all your searches and keeps them safe. This means that every time you type a query into your Chrome browser, the information is encrypted before it leaves your computer, ensuring that your search terms and the results you receive are protected from prying eyes.
Benefits and Limitations
The primary benefit of using the SSL Web Search extension is enhanced privacy. In an age where data breaches and privacy concerns are rampant, having an additional layer of security can provide peace of mind. This is especially useful for individuals who frequently handle sensitive information or are concerned about their online privacy. Additionally, encrypted searches can help prevent targeted advertising based on your search history, as third parties will have a harder time accessing your search data.
However, it’s important to note that while SSL encryption significantly enhances privacy, it is not a foolproof solution. For instance, while your search queries are encrypted, the websites you visit after clicking on search results may not be. Therefore, it’s still crucial to ensure that the websites you visit also use HTTPS, which indicates that they are secure.
You can download the new Chrome browser extensions from the website Google SSL Web Search beta (by Google). The installation process is straightforward and user-friendly, making it accessible even for those who are not particularly tech-savvy. Once installed, the extension works seamlessly in the background, requiring no additional input from the user.
Unfortunately, the extensions are currently only available for PC-based machines, but Mac versions are expected shortly. This limitation means that Mac users will have to wait a bit longer to benefit from this enhanced security feature. However, given the increasing focus on privacy and security, it is likely that Google will prioritize the release of the Mac version.
In conclusion, Google’s SSL Web Search extension for Chrome is a valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their online privacy. By encrypting your search queries, it provides an additional layer of security that can help protect your data from third parties. While it is currently only available for PC users, the anticipated release for Mac will soon make this feature accessible to a broader audience.
Via Life Hacker
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