Google announced various cybersecurity updates for Chrome OS, the operating system that supports Chromebook devices. The updates range from new partner security integration and data control to hardware security. Google said a new set of actions had been introduced to help companies work towards a zero trust model.
New partner security integration
The new integration called Chrome Enterprise Connectors Framework will include collaboration with Netskope Security Cloud as well as Okta Identity Engine policy support for Chrome OS that will help businesses meet their identity management needs. The new set of integrations will also include endpoint management and closer collaboration with BlackBerry UEM and Samsung Knox Manager as well as updates to Google’s existing integration with VMware Workspace ONE.
Additionally, Google has added integrations for security insights and reporting, including with the Splunk Cloud Platform. Google also said integrations with Palo Alto Networks and CrowdStrike will soon be available through the Chrome Enterprise Trusted Tester Program.
In addition to a series of third-party integrations, Google also announced Chrome OS Data Controls that will provide endpoint protection to users, preventing data leaks by allowing information technology (IT) to define rules within Chrome OS about when to trigger controls for different actions. This will include copy and paste, screenshots, printing, and other activities that can cause data loss.
Google has also announced several security-focused hardware updates. The Chromebook P Elite Dragonfly, the first Chrome OS device with Intel vPro Enterprise will allow users to work with a number of features, such as the HP Privacy Camera, Fingerprint Sensor, and the optional HP Sure View privacy screen.
Google also introduced Intel vPro Enterprise for Chrome OS which provides comprehensive hardware-based security through two key features. Namely, Key Locker which can protect disk encryption keys and prevent leakage and Intel Total Memory Encryption which helps ensure data leaving the chip to system memory is encrypted.