Google Chrome: New money-saving alert

Posted on Monday November 19, 2018

Over the years, Google Chrome has had several versions, with each one providing new benefits to users. In December, Google will launch the 71st version of Chrome, introducing a money-saving feature to users. How will it do that?

The money-saving warning

The Google Chrome update aims to protect users from websites with “insufficient mobile subscription information.” These are online businesses that offer subscription services, but don't provide users with enough billing information, either due to poor website design or a deliberate attempt to deceive.

To curb this, Chrome will show a warning page that says “The page ahead may try to charge you money” and offers options to proceed or go back to the previous page. Some users may know that they'll incur charges when they hit “proceed” but may not be aware whether the charges will be one-time or recurring. The new Chrome warning will serve as a reminder for this.

How will it benefit users?

The Chrome warning's main benefit will be removing surprise charges. Many users don't always know what they're agreeing to when they click a link, and being reminded that they're about to spend some money is definitely advantageous.

In fact, some merchants (e.g., mobile gaming companies) require users to input their mobile number without specifying that doing so entails paying for a subscription service, much less indicating the amount being paid.

A recent study shows that more than 50% of internet users browse sites using a mobile device, with this number expected to increase in the next few years. Considering that not all websites are optimized for many types of mobile devices, this update is certainly a welcome one.

In addition, Google recently reported that millions of Chrome users may be tricked into paying for site services that have “insufficient mobile subscription information.” According to the tech company, billing information should be obvious. The new warning page will be integrated into those sites with unclear mobile billing features.

If you don't want to go through the hassle of asking a merchant for a refund for products and services you didn't intend to purchase to begin with, this new feature will be a tremendous help. Whether you want protections like this on your mobile devices, laptop, or desktop, our IT experts can offer money-saving IT tips, tricks, and recommendations. Give us a call today.