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How to avoid fake websites from Google Chrome.

Creation date: 4/21/2025 11:35 AM    Updated: 4/21/2025 11:37 AM   chrome fake websites phising spam
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To avoid fake websites in Google Chrome, which provides warnings about potentially unsafe sites. Additionally, verify website security by checking for the "https://" prefix and a padlock icon, and be wary of suspicious links or misspellings in URLs. Using website security checkers like Google Safe Browsing and browser extensions can also help identify and warn about potential threats. 

If your browser is compromised, please contact IT Help Desk for support. 


Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Leverage Chrome's Safe Browsing:
  • Default Protection:
    Google Chrome's Safe Browsing feature is enabled by default and helps protect you from phishing, malware, and other threats. 

  • Warnings:
    When Safe Browsing identifies a suspicious site, it will display a warning message before you visit the page. 

  • Customization:
    You can adjust your Safe Browsing settings to control the level of protection. 

2. Verify Website Security:
  • HTTPS and Padlock: Always look for "https://" in the URL and a padlock icon in the address bar, indicating a secure connection.
  • Suspicious URLs: Be cautious of misspellings, odd domains, or too many dashes in a URL.
  • Check the URL Carefully: The part of the URL between "https://" and the first "/" is the domain name. Verify that it matches the website you expect to be visiting. 

3. Use Security Checkers and Extensions:
  • You can use Google's Safe Browsing Site Status tool to check if a specific site is known for phishing or malware. 

4. Additional Tips:
  • Don't Click Suspicious Links:
    Be wary of links in emails or messages that appear out of the blue, especially if they ask for personal information. 

  • Use Bookmarks or Type URLs Manually:
    Avoid following links from email if possible and instead use bookmarks or type the URL directly into the address bar. 

  • Report Suspicious Sites:
    If you encounter a fake website or think a site is incorrectly flagged, you can report it to Google. 


Other information: 

Manage warnings about unsafe sites -  https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/99020
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