Google has announced a new AI-powered feature for Chrome aimed at enhancing online shopping safety amid rising scams. The feature will summarize reviews from independent sites, helping users assess website trustworthiness. This comes as the FBI and Google warn consumers about increased online scams during the holiday season.
Recent data indicates a significant uptick in online spending, with Adobe forecasting record holiday sales of $241 billion in 2024, an increase of 8.4% from the previous year. Adobe’s report showed that Thanksgiving alone generated $33.6 billion in online sales globally, marking a 6% growth. The U.S. market saw an 8% increase, totaling $8.1 billion, with European spending rising by 10%. With shifting consumer behavior favoring online shopping over physical stores, the emphasis on cybersecurity in web browsers is more critical than ever.
Google’s AI feature for enhanced online safety
The newly introduced “Store reviews” feature in Chrome uses AI to provide quick and accessible summaries of reviews from trusted platforms such as Trust Pilot and ScamAdvisor. When users click on the lock icon or “i” icon in the address bar, they will see an information panel, including a dedicated section for these reviews. This will enable consumers to discern the credibility of websites without needing to visit numerous review sites.
As observed by an X user, Leopeva64, while the feature is currently under development and not yet available, its potential could significantly aid in identifying fraudulent websites. Google is incorporating this AI-driven feature as part of its broader effort to protect users through enhanced browser security measures. Previously known as proactive protection, this safety feature will now provide real-time defenses against dangerously flagged sites and harmful downloads.
The timing of this announcement is crucial. The holiday season has been marred by a surge in online scams, misleading consumers with fake websites and phishing attacks disguised as special offers. As Google and the FBI issue warnings, the focus on safeguarding online transactions becomes integral to maintaining consumer trust.
Adobe’s findings further underscore the trend of mobile shopping dominance, projecting that mobile revenue will account for 53.2% of online shopping this holiday season, totaling around $128 billion. As online shopping continues to grow, so does the need for advanced protective measures from browsers like Chrome, which caters to over 3 billion users globally.
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