Google is preparing a major change to Chrome that will make web browsing safer for everyone. Starting in October 2026, Chrome will automatically use secure HTTPS connections for all public websites. If a site doesn’t support HTTPS, Chrome will show a clear warning and ask whether you still want to visit it.
This move is part of Google’s long-term effort to protect people from unsafe websites that can be used to steal data or install harmful software.
What Is HTTPS and Why It Matters
When a website uses HTTPS, it adds a layer of encryption between your browser and the site. This keeps your information private and helps make sure you’re really connecting to the website you intended to visit.
Websites that still use the older HTTP connection don’t have this protection. Hackers can take advantage of those weak links to trick users or insert malicious content. Google says attackers only need one unprotected connection to cause harm.
A Gradual Rollout
Google first introduced the “Always Use Secure Connections” feature in 2022 as an optional setting. It allowed Chrome to automatically switch to HTTPS whenever possible. Since then, the company has tested the feature with a small group of users and found that warnings appeared for less than three percent of visits.
The feature will roll out in stages. Users who have Enhanced Safe Browsing turned on will get the change earlier, in April 2026. Everyone else will see it by default once Chrome version 154 launches in October.
When you try to open a website that doesn’t use HTTPS, Chrome will display a message asking for your approval before loading it. This way, users remain in control but are also aware when a connection isn’t secure.
What About Private or Local Sites?
Some websites, such as those used for home routers or company networks, still rely on HTTP because it’s harder to get HTTPS certificates for private addresses like 192.168.0.1. Chrome will treat those cases differently since they’re usually accessed only from within a trusted network. Google says these are less risky than public sites but still not entirely safe.
Making the Web Safer for Everyone
Today, more than 95 percent of websites already use HTTPS, but Google says progress has slowed in recent years. By turning the secure setting on by default, Chrome aims to close the remaining gap and push the last few sites to upgrade.
Users who prefer not to see any warnings can still turn the setting off manually, but Google hopes most people will keep it on. The company believes this shift will make the internet a safer place to browse, even for those who never think twice about what happens behind the address bar.
Notes: This post was edited/created using GenAI tools.
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