You can now turn off the Google Chrome AI model behind the scam detection tool – Google confirms AI model was hosted on your device (www.techradar.com)

Google Chrome has introduced an opt-out feature for its AI-driven scam detection tool, which is part of the browser's 'enhanced protection' mode. The AI model, initially rolled out last year, scans potentially unsafe websites, extensions, and downloads to identify scams. Notably, this model operates locally on users' devices, a detail confirmed by Google. The newly added toggle in the experimental 'Canary' version allows users to disable this AI functionality, providing them with more control over their browsing experience. This move is significant for the AI/ML community as it contrasts the trend of mandatory AI features in software. Allowing users to opt-out represents a win for privacy advocates, acknowledging concerns over AI integration. While the specific advantages of the AI-assisted scam detection over traditional methods remain somewhat unclear, it suggests an evolution in browser security that could influence future developments. The opt-out feature is expected to roll out to all users in subsequent updates, signaling Google’s responsiveness to user feedback in the era of increasingly embedded AI technologies.