Google Updates Chrome Web Store Policy, Explicitly Banning Prediction Market Extensions From August

Google announced a set of policy updates for the Chrome Web Store developer program on July 1, 2026, with enforcement set to begin on August 1. The most notable change for the crypto and on-chain market segment is a clarification under regulated goods and services: prediction markets are now explicitly listed as prohibited products. Extensions that facilitate or support real-money trading on prediction outcomes will not be allowed on the platform. The company also tightened its data handling rules. Under the revised limited use policy, any user data collected by an extension must be used strictly for the single purpose disclosed by that extension, and collection for any other purpose is prohibited. In parallel, Google raised transparency requirements by mandating prominent disclosure of all data collection practices, including cases where the data is not closely tied to the extension’s single stated purpose. Developers must also proactively notify users if data handling practices change after installation. In addition, Google introduced a new restriction on extensions designed to circumvent safeguards, usage limits, or other protections implemented by AI-powered services. Google said the changes are meant to strengthen user trust, privacy, and platform safety across emerging product categories.