The popular Google Chrome browser has established itself as the go-to browsing tool thanks to its versatility, integration with the Google ecosystem, and its extensive catalog of extensions. To maintain this smooth and, above all, secure experience, the browser is constantly implementing improvements. Among the most notable new features are tab grouping for better organization and, crucially, the ability to perform a thorough security scan to analyze the protection of our data online.
In a digital environment where vulnerabilities and data breaches are increasingly common, keeping your browser up to date is a top priority. Chrome's security checker allows you to quickly analyze three critical points , helping you mitigate risks before they become a real problem.
Chrome is installed on millions of devices worldwide, and its Android version has reached near parity with the desktop version. Running a security test takes no more than a minute, but the benefits in terms of privacy and protection are immense, especially when it comes to detecting compromised passwords or outdated browsing settings.
How to perform a security check in Google Chrome for Android
The system primarily analyzes the status of updates , password security , and the level of secure browsing . It is recommended to run this process at least every two to three weeks, as security updates can be released very frequently, and it is vital to have the latest version installed to avoid known exploits.
To run the security check on your mobile device, follow these detailed steps:
- Open the application Google Chrome on your Android device.
- Click on the menu of the three vertical points located in the upper right corner.
- Access the section of Configuration (gear icon).
- In the "Basic Settings" menu, look for the option Security checkIf it doesn't appear, make sure to update the app from the Google Play Store.
- You will see a message indicating that Chrome can help protect you against data breaches and unsafe sites.
- Click on the Check now.
After the analysis, the system will display blue checkmarks for the correct items (such as updates and secure browsing). If an information icon (i) appears in the passwords section, it means you should strengthen your passwords or change any that have been compromised. Clicking it will redirect you to the Password Manager to make the necessary changes.
Computer security check (PC and Mac)
The process on desktop is similar but much more thorough, as Chrome performs automatic scans to detect privacy issues. On a computer, the tool looks for the following elements:
- Compromised or reused passwords: It alerts you if your credentials stored in Google Manager have been exposed in external data breaches.
- Safe Navigation Status: Verify that you are protected against the malware and phishing.
- Available updates: Ensure that your browser engine has the latest security patches.
- Site permissions and notifications: Chrome detects misleading notifications or permissions granted to sites you no longer use, removing them to protect your privacy.
- Harmful extensions: Analyze whether any installed extension poses a risk to system security, based on the detected behavior.
To access on a PC, go to More > Settings > Privacy and security and select Go to Security Check . If the system detects a problem, simply select the affected item and follow the on-screen instructions.
Advanced configurations for armored navigation
In addition to basic security checks, there are advanced options that can turn your browsing experience into a digital bunker:
Secure connections and HTTPS
The HTTPS protocol encrypts communication between your device and the server. To enforce this, you can enable the " Always use secure connections" option in the Security menu. This will cause Chrome to automatically attempt to improve URLs and display a clear " Not secure" warning if the site is not supported.
Secure DNS and Password Encryption
Chrome allows you to use a secure DNS to encrypt IP address lookup requests, preventing third parties from spying on which websites you visit. It's set to automatic by default, but you can choose a custom provider in the advanced settings. It's also essential to configure encryption on your device , ensuring that only you, using your screen lock or Google password, can unlock your saved keys.
Enhanced Protection vs. Standard
Within Safe Browsing, you can choose between standard protection and enhanced protection . Enhanced protection is more proactive and analyzes URLs in real time to protect you from more sophisticated phishing attacks. You can also activate password alerts for security breaches to receive immediate notifications.
For those who require the highest level of security, Google offers the Advanced Protection Program , designed for journalists, activists, or people at high risk of targeted attacks, which requires the use of physical security keys.
Maintaining a routine security check and properly managing extension and website permissions is the best defense against today's threats. The combined use of security checks , encrypted DNS, and enhanced protection ensures that Google Chrome's versatility doesn't become a weakness for our online privacy.
