- Google Chrome users will soon be able to opt-out from an AI model
- Chrome added an AI model as part of the 'enhanced protection' mode
- The AI model was hosted locally on the user's device
Google has introduced a new toggle in the experimental ‘Canary’ version of Chrome, allowing users to disable the AI model that aids in scam detection.
This locally-hosted AI model was integrated into scam detection last year, aimed at providing enhanced “real-time” protection.
Google has confirmed that the AI model was indeed hosted on users' devices through Google Chrome.
A Rare Opt-Out in the AI Era
The scam detection tool in Chrome scans websites, extensions, and downloads that the web browser identifies as potentially unsafe to determine if they are part of a scam.
In an era where software increasingly incorporates non-optional AI, Google's decision to allow users to opt-out of the AI model is a notable win for Chrome users.
The specific advantages of the AI-enhanced scam detection tool compared to its non-AI counterpart remain unclear. Many of the best antivirus software already utilize AI for scam detection through pattern recognition, suggesting that Google's tool may operate similarly.
X user Leopeva64 first noted the introduction of AI-powered “enhanced protection” back in November 2024 and later observed the new opt-out toggle in the latest Chrome Canary release.
To disable the AI-powered enhanced protection mode, users should go to Chrome settings, navigate to ‘System’, and turn off "On-device GenAI." While this option is currently available only in Canary, it is expected to roll out to all Chrome users in the next update.