As part of Safer Internet Day, Google is releasing a variety of security features to better protect people as they browse the Internet. Chief among these, SafeSearch Filters for Underage Usersis expanding and will become the default setting for all.
This means that Google Search will automatically blur offensive images that appear in search results even if you don’t have the filter turned on. Extended reason, by company (opens in a new tab), is to ensure that users, especially minors, do not inadvertently see pornography on Search. Users will be able to turn off the new blur at any time or make it more strict.
As it stands, this feature does not hide any text or links to pornography. However, looking at the image on the Google post, it looks like you can enable the new Filter setting to do that.
Users over 18 will see the new default setting in the “coming months” as it is rolled out periodically. Instructions on how to tweak SafeSearch can be found on Google Search Help Site (opens in a new tab).
In addition to the SafeSearch change, Google is adding three other privacy tools across its other platforms.
Google Password Manager on Chrome and Android browsers will start supporting biometric authentication to verify your identity. The notice says the feature can be used to “securely reveal, copy, or edit saved passwords” on Password Manager without having to enter them every time.
Next, virtual cardthose are “unique numbers for online transactions” [that keep] your payment information is safe”, will now be available to “American Express customers” – as long as you qualify.
For the last feature, iOS users will be able to use Face ID to protect their privacy on the Google app and prevent unwanted access. Don’t know if an Android version is in development.
The launch dates of these tools are a mystery as Google doesn’t really say if they’ll be out anytime soon or in a few months like with the SafeSearch change. We reached out to ask if the company could provide us with a launch time for the three tools. This story will be updated if we hear back.
Over the past few years, Google has been continuously working to improve family-focused features like Refurbished Family Link app with updated parental controls and smarter Google TV recommendations. But if you want more, be sure to check out TechRadar’s list best identity theft plan for home. These apps will prevent bad guys from accessing sensitive information as well as alert you to any suspicious activity.
