Google updates Chrome Web Store policy: bans prediction market extension programs

Mars Finance News, July 8 – According to official sources, the Google Chrome Web Store has announced an update to its Developer Program Policies, aiming to further strengthen user privacy protection, data transparency requirements, and platform security management. The new policies will take effect on August 1, 2026.

Based on the update, the Chrome Web Store will expand its list of prohibited products, explicitly banning extensions that support or facilitate real-money transactions for prediction market outcomes. This policy means that Chrome extensions involving real-money trading functions on platforms such as Polymarket and Kalshi will no longer be allowed to operate in the store.

Additionally, Google will tighten rules on extension data collection. User data collected by developers must be strictly used for the single purpose disclosed by the extension, and is prohibited from being used for any other undisclosed purposes. At the same time, all data collection activities must be prominently disclosed to users, even if the data is related to the core functionality of the extension. If developers change the way data is processed after installation, they must also proactively inform users.

Google has also added a "Malicious and Prohibited Products Policy," explicitly banning extensions that bypass security protections, usage restrictions, or other safeguard mechanisms of AI services.

Google stated that this policy adjustment aims to enhance the credibility of the Chrome extension ecosystem, establishing clearer regulatory boundaries in emerging areas such as prediction markets, AI security, and data privacy. Developers must complete compliance adjustments before August 1, 2026, otherwise the Chrome Web Store may take measures such as removal.