Chrome Users Warned of Unintended AI File Downloads: Experts Investigate Browser Vulnerability

Google Chrome Faces Criticism Over AI Model Download

Google Chrome is under scrutiny after reports emerged that the browser has been downloading a 4GB artificial intelligence model onto some users' computers without a clear opt-in process. The file, linked to Google's Gemini Nano AI system, is reportedly installed in the background to power features such as scam detection and writing assistance.

Researchers claim that the file, called "weights bin," reappears even after deletion, while Google says users can disable the feature through Chrome settings. This controversy began after privacy researcher Alexander Hanff published findings showing that Chrome automatically downloads the model on systems that meet certain hardware requirements without showing a direct consent prompt.

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Google introduced Gemini Nano in Chrome in 2024 as part of its push toward on-device AI features. The company claims that running AI locally improves privacy because some tasks can be processed without sending user data to cloud servers. Chrome uses the model for features including "Help me write," page summarization tools, and phishing protection.

Critics argue that users were not clearly informed about the storage impact of the download. Several reports stated that people only discovered the file after noticing a sudden drop in available disk space. Technology website The Verge reported that the file can consume about 4GB of storage and may automatically return if deleted unless the related AI settings are turned off.

Hanff has also raised concerns about privacy laws in Europe, arguing that silent installation of large files could breach transparency and consent rules under the GDPR and the ePrivacy Directive. Some cybersecurity experts have also questioned the environmental impact of distributing such large files to millions of devices worldwide.

In response to the criticism, Google confirmed that the Gemini Nano model automatically uninstalls on devices running low on storage and stated that a setting to disable on-device AI has started rolling out in Chrome's System settings.

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