8 Year old Chrome Extension TakeDown without any Warning.
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Vishnu NUK
Aug 10, 2021, 6:03:05 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions
Hi,
Chrome Web Store Item URL or Item ID
aeghledigokaedmpimgnfplidhdhlchg
Hi, I had an Extension listed on the Chrome Web store. And I recently contacted the web store team regarding my options to remove some spam comments. And they told me to send screenshots, and I send them a couple of screenshots. After few days, instead of removing abusive/spam comments, they went ahead and removed my Eight-year-old extension.
Even if the reason for removing my extension is right, they should have contacted me before taking it down. A TakeDown should enforce only when malware or serious wrongdoing is confirmed; they should contact the developer and ask for a fix or make it unpublished. Remove it without any warning is surprising to me. We are real human beings who are working with a bunch of robots? This is absolutely a disgrace to the developer and people who use my extension.
The reason for Removal from the Automated Email response was this.
Violation reference ID: Yellow Lithium
Violation:
The item's primary purpose is installing or launching another app, theme, webpage, or extension.
"Relevant section in the Program Policies:
Spam and Placement in the Store
Functionality: Do not post an extension with a single purpose of installing or launching another app, theme, webpage, or extension. Extensions with broken functionality - such as dead sites or non-functioning features - are not allowed."
For the last 8 years, it was on the chrome store, listed in 2013. Clearly, my extension does not come under this definition.
My Extension is not installing or launching another app, theme, webpage or extension.
My Extension was adding functionality to chrome. Users can test their Internet speed with just one click of a button. A convenient way to test internet speed quickly and easily, it had over 60000 users.
It was a WebApp, not a website that provides information about a product or service.
So, It was not a webpage, but it was a WebApp that dose some functionality that will not come under the traditional 'webpage' definition.
My Extension looks and worked like https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/speedtest-by-ookla/pgjjikdiikihdfpoppgaidccahalehjh
How can I make an extension like this differently?
Your (Then person who removed my extension) job at google is to help developers or attack them and take them down mentally ?? You ruined my day (Probably this week).
If you found an issue with this extension listed from 2013, you should have an option to contact me or propose a modification.
Instead, you went ahead and removed it. That is totally unfair.
I never collected user data or used or abused any API; I am on the chrome store for 8+ years.
I listed this extension on Other Stores, and they accepted it.. and people using it.
What is wrong with the chrome store team member who taken this down?
Kent Brewster
Aug 10, 2021, 6:09:43 PM8/10/21
to Vishnu NUK, Chromium Extensions
Just pulled down the Firefox version of your extension; all it does is open this pop-up:
<!doctype html>
<html>
<head>
<title>Speed Test Most Accurate Online Broadband Speed Test</title>
</head>
<body >
<!--OST Widget code start--><iframe tabindex="-1" src="http://openspeedtest.com/Get-widget.php?utm_source=chromeextension&utm_medium=widget&ref=chrome&Auto=1" width="735" scrolling="no" height="490" frameborder="0">
</iframe><br /><div style="text-align:center; width: 725px;"><a tabindex="-1" href="http://openspeedtest.com?utm_source=chromeextension&utm_medium=widget&ref=chrome">Powered by openspeedtest.com</a></div><!-- OST Widget code end -->
</body>
</html>
... which pretty clearly has the single purpose of launching openspeedtest.com in an iframe.
--Kent
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Vishnu NUK
Aug 10, 2021, 6:11:03 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK
Yes, it is a web app not a website, it is automatically launching the app and doing a speed test.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 10, 2021, 6:12:50 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK
What does the other mentioned similar extension do different, it is all about how you define thing for your actions justification.
On Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at 3:39:43 AM UTC+5:30 Kent Brewster wrote:
Kent Brewster
Aug 10, 2021, 6:13:06 PM8/10/21
to Vishnu NUK, Chromium Extensions
If you open http://openspeedtest.com/results/widget.php in a fresh tab it will run without installing, so ... it's a Web site.
--Kent
Vishnu NUK
Aug 10, 2021, 6:16:37 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK
So we should not show results? showing results with a unique id is what it is doing.
it required a unique id to show results.
what you have done here? tell me.
how you make an app like this and show results.. :)
Vishnu NUK
Aug 10, 2021, 6:20:37 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK
So, the solution for this is TakeDown? Without Warning.
Also tell me how can i do this differently ?
Kent Brewster
Aug 10, 2021, 6:23:22 PM8/10/21
to Vishnu NUK, Chromium Extensions
Backing up a step: I definitely agree with you (being the primary maintainer of an eight-year-old very popular extension myself) that asking for help and having your extension taken down instead is pretty awful. That being said: I urge you to try to keep emotions out of it and hear what Google (where I do not personally work, remember) is saying. Your extension breaks a rule that's been put there for good reason, therefore they took it down.
You have a great opportunity here to build something that doesn't just wrap a site. The first thing I'd think about would be building something that actually runs inside the pop-up to test your speed using your open API. (If you don't have an open API, build one!) Open-source your extension if you can, maybe see what other developers could contribute?
Good luck,
--Kent
Vishnu NUK
Aug 10, 2021, 6:35:53 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK
Thanks for understanding.
But I still don't think I am breaking any rules.
The First example of google chrome extension was making an Extension like this on Google itself.
"that actually runs inside the pop-up."
I don't think a pop-up that load useful stuff is illegal.
I think the one who taken this down misinterpreted the word "Webpage."
He doesn't know the difference between a webpage and a web app.
Most apps progressive web apps are listed on PlayStore as apps. I don't think that is a problem. If it does what it says and it is not abusing API or collecting user data illegally.
There are many extensions like the one they remove listed on the chrome store, and they are not bothered.
Kent Brewster
Aug 10, 2021, 6:42:31 PM8/10/21
to Vishnu NUK, Chromium Extensions
Okay. Let's hang back for an official opinion from Simeon on this.
--Kent
Vishnu NUK
Aug 10, 2021, 7:03:03 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK
Yes, I am waiting for that. I already send couple of emails but no reason. I think the person who told another person to remove the " Spam comments " (which I requested) but he thought it was to remove the extension itself. And he removed the extension. That is why there is " Spam " mentioned in the reason.
I get a chance to talk with someone who is actually responsible for this kind of stuff from the chrom store that was awesome.
Have a nice day Kent. 🙏
hrg...@gmail.com
Aug 10, 2021, 8:10:44 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
I would ask myself the following question:
Can the functionality of the extension be implemented as a regular webpage?
If the answer is "yes", then it's quite likely that the extension will be taken down sooner or later.
The CWS staff wants the extension catalog free of unnecessary items. Every extension must have a good reason to be in the store.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 10, 2021, 9:21:20 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, hrg...@gmail.com, Vishnu NUK, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
What else a regular web page speed test can't do is doing by the Ookla extension?
My Extension also worked like that.
Chrome store or staff need to make sure it's is safe and secure to use or not.
If my extension was stealing credit card info this Tackdown Enforcement make sense.
If this is your login 90% of apps should be deleted from Playstore.
Users decide what they want. Not chrome store staf.
We had 60000+ users and other platforms still growing users.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 10, 2021, 9:27:03 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, hrg...@gmail.com, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
My Extension had the following purposes.
- You can run a speed test by just one click of a button.
- from any page without opening new window or website.
- No ads
- Speed test start automatically when you click the icon. So you can save time.
Myself I user this extension regularly.
User feedback back (people who use this extension) lead to the addition automatic speed tesr start functionality.
Previously you need to click a button.
hrg...@gmail.com
Aug 10, 2021, 9:57:21 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, hrg...@gmail.com, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
My advice to you is... don't try to reason with the CWS staff. They will just tell you that your extension doesn't comply with their policies.
You can try to appeal their decision. But when they tell you "Thanks for the explanation, but still... NO", you have to move on and learn from the experience.
Now you know that the CWS staff doesn't like you particular implementation. Providing a toolbar button as a shortcut or quick view of another webpage is not enough to pass the review. You need more than that.
For example, instead of the extension's popup being just a view of another website, include the functionality of that website in the extension itself. That way it will truly be an installable app.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 10, 2021, 10:12:11 PM8/10/21
to Chromium Extensions, hrg...@gmail.com, Vishnu NUK, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
-> This was not a review
-> Chrome staff ability to understand the policies are in question here.
-> If they say "iframe is not allowed here", then that is ok.
-> Even if they expect a modification without warning TackDown is justifiable?
Next time one of your extension faced this kind of Enforcement for no justifiable reason will you just shut your mouth and praise CWS staff?
"You need more than that."
"For example, instead of the extension's popup being just a view of another website, include the functionality of that website in the extension itself. That way it will truly be an installable app."
This is an Internet speed test apps.
So no need to work offline or use chrome Extension specific.
My App was not violating any rules in my knowledge.
My App was serving it purpose.
No abuse of API or any other sketchy stuff ever did.
This is unfair decision by mistake from a CWS staff or his inability to understand program policies.
program policies are here to make chrome store safe and secure and protect it users.
my Extension was safe and secure and not harming any users.
Thanks for the advice
have a nice day
hrg...@gmail.com
Aug 11, 2021, 12:39:32 AM8/11/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, hrg...@gmail.com, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
Extensions are reviewed not only when you upload an update, but also when users "report abuse" and also when a number of automated systems detect potential violations, such as extensions that are too similar to each other, extensions that transmit user's private data, keyword spamming in extension descriptions, and many others.
So, yes, it was a review. For whatever reason, your extension was flagged for human attention, so a reviewer looked at it... and you know the result.
You are still emotionally affected by this, so your reaction is understandable.
As the days go by, the situation will force you to think rationally. The interpretation of the policies by the staff are the actual policies. They have the power to take you down, so their interpretation wins over yours.
They make the law. They determine when they law is being violated. And they enforce it.
See? It's a dictatorship.
You are complaining as if the CWS was a democracy. It isn't.
Try to appeal the decision and see how that does. If you are lucky they might reinstate your extension. If not, there's nothing else you can do other than learn from the experience and make things differently next time so that they don't take you down again.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 11, 2021, 1:00:42 AM8/11/21
to Chromium Extensions, hrg...@gmail.com, Vishnu NUK, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
I still don't understand what is wrong with my extension.
Loading an iFrame is illegal?
I have not requested any permission. Not collecting or Transmitting Data from Extension API.
Maybe my extension was too simple, they need to review some external code injection and some locally hosted javascript files.
It will not make my app any better. So i did it in a way that a single developer like me can manage.
I can keep improving the application via iframe, which i did less than 5 times in last 8 years. because this is not something that need a regular maintenance.
So adding an iFrame should not be illegal.
But adding a shortcut to a website should be illegal and with no added functionality it should be removed from the store.
IN MY CASE my we app should not be treated as a normal website.
also it is adding automatic test functionality.
Just like you said i am waiting for " appeal decision "
Still i have not received a single response back from them.
What ever the case maybe a takedown without warning is unjustifiable. unless serious crime like credit card stealing or collecting other data without permission etc is committed.
@Kent told me to create an API to run speed test.
That will add even more security issues and chance of abuse API is even grater. An iframe is SAFE AND SECURE also easy to maintain.
Google is Evil.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 11, 2021, 2:55:11 AM8/11/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, hrg...@gmail.com, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
See a perfect user experience with all checks boxes true from CWS team.
Internet speed test should work when a user is offline ? YES
Work with Google Drive? YES
Speed Test works? CWS team.Who cares.
Approved!
An Extension will not work can be allowed because it use all offline scripts etc.
A perfectly functional extension will get removed because it uses iFrame.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 11, 2021, 7:39:55 AM8/11/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, hrg...@gmail.com, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
Hello Developer,
Thank you for reaching out to us. We understand your concern and will help you with the same. Upon a subsequent review, we found that your item: “Speed Test” with ID: “aeghledigokaedmpimgnfplidhdhlchg” is not compliant with our Developer Program Policies.
Please find details of the violation in your item below:
Spam-Redirect:
- Violation: Extension is providing a functionality that can be run independently of the extensions through (http://openspeedtest.com/Get-widget.php?utm_source=chromeextension&utm_medium=widget&ref=chrome&Auto=1) this site. As per our policy such item’s will fall under our Spam-Redirect policy.
- How to rectify: Functionality should be provided on the extension and not by embedding a web app. For more information, Please refer to this FAQ link.
Re-submit your item for review with the above corrective action. Your submission will be approved if we find it to be compliant with all our policies.
Do you believe this was a mistake?
Please reply to this email with your justification.
Regarding the warning email, we request you to check your spam folders and email filters to ensure that the email was not missed from your end.
We value your contributions to the Chrome Web Store, and look forward to helping you bring your item into compliance with our policies.
Thanks,
Chrome Web Store Developer Support
Hi, Dear Reviewer
Still you are misinterpreting the program policies or you are justifying your action as much as possible.
I regularly check my mail, now I check my spam folder. I NEVER found a warning message before TakeDown. All I received was an automated message after a TakeDown.
"Can I publish an extension that directs users to my app?"
see "directs users to my app" i am not directing users to my webapp. instead it opens in a little popup window on top of any websites and immediately runs a speed test. (Screenshot attached)
Is there a rule like this -> If true please say "iframe is not allowed here", then that is ok.
This is why chrome store removed apps from the store, developers just put a shortcut to there website from the chrome store.
In my case this is not a SPAM redirect.
Here is why
My Extension had the following purposes.
- You can run a speed test by just one click of a button.
- from any page without opening a new window or redirecting the user to the website.
- No ads
- Speed test starts automatically when you click the icon. So you can save time.
I AM NOT REDIRECTING USERS TO MY WEBSITE/WEBAPP PLEASE NOT THE POINT
IFRAME IS USED TO ADD FUNCTIONALITY TO THE APPLICATION IT'S PURPOSE IS NOT TO REDIRECT USERS TO WEBSITE A OR B
I use this extension regularly.
User feedback (people who use this extension) lead to the addition of automatic speed test start functionality.
Previously you needed to click a button.
See in the same page it says
"This is allowed only as an auxiliary feature within the overall extension functionality. It cannot be the single purpose of the extension."
So If you think like this my Extension's primary function is to load the iframe in the background and when the user clicks the icon.
auxiliary feature : Run a speed test Automatically that is what doing the Auto=1 in the url
I CAN ADD AUTO=1 DYNAMICALLY WHEN USER CLICK THE ICON. BUT WHY? WHAT DIFFERENCE IT MAKES ?
MAKE IT MORE SECURE?
"Functionality should be provided on the extension and not by embedding a web app. For more information,"
This is making my extension unnecessarily complex with no added benefits to me or my users.
Please try to understand before enforcing policies.
What improvement does it actually bring to the table?
make it secure? What are you expecting to achieve here ?
My App was not violating any rules in my knowledge.
My App was serving its purpose. (One Click speed test, Quick & Fast)
No abuse of API or any other sketchy stuff ever did.
I THINK IFRAME APPROACH IS MORE SECURE , I AM NOT REQUESTING ANY PERMISSION.
What else is the Ookla extension? Doing differently than my extension?
My Extension also worked like that.
Please check the attached video and screenshot.
My Extension actually worked perfectly and is still working on other platforms.
These extensions you guys approved of doing this to me, this is considered as a good experience? and my little extension is Evil?.
I listed this extension on Other Stores, and they accepted it.. and people using it.
Please reconsider your decision, ask questions like why we are implementing this?
to Satisfy our ego or make it more secure or for better user experience etc
I can see no benefits of implementing it in a different way, that is why.
I don't like to break rules, I always like to follow rules and I believe it is to protect everyone including me.
but i still don't understand what is the purpose of this TakeDown and the changes you requested bring to the table.
I am already working on PWA, so this iframe approach will be even better when it arrives.
SO PLEASE reconsider this decision
Thank you
hrg...@gmail.com
Aug 11, 2021, 4:53:08 PM8/11/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, hrg...@gmail.com, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
The paragraph afer "How to rectify" is your only choice.
Remember... it's a dictatorship.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 11, 2021, 9:24:19 PM8/11/21
to Chromium Extensions, hrg...@gmail.com, Vishnu NUK, Kent Brewster, Chromium Extensions
Yes, I know that because do you believe an email that "warning mail" send from google not yet arrived in my gmail. That is a clear lie they told me yesterday. So i think someone from CWS don't like my project and they will not allow it back to store. I don't have time and resources to rebuild my project just for making an extension for google chrome. So to my Chrome Extension RIP 2013 to 2021..
They don't understand what is a redirect , so we cannot explain what is spam redirect.. lol.. i am done.. maybe i will try again after few years like 2024 or 2025. if me and my project alive at that time.
Goodbye.
Duck Geek
Aug 12, 2021, 1:35:19 PM8/12/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com
I was using a similar extension made for Netflix's Fast.com. IIRC it was officially created by Netflix team, but, when it was missing on my new Chrome setup, I looked for it in CWS .... and it was gone.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 12, 2021, 8:27:46 PM8/12/21
to Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Vishnu NUK
This is unfortunate, Now. i am worried about This Extension it is not my extension, but am using it everyday to my generate my 2FA tokens.
If the logic of Spam Redirect applied here this extension will be taken out of chrome store soon. Really sad to see this.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 12, 2021, 9:17:23 PM8/12/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, ge...@duck.com, sim...@chromium.org
Why did I choose IFrame Approach?
We had a massive abusive traffic kind of denial of service attack that was eating over 65000 GB of my CDN bandwidth per day. So we decided to lock it down. So managing an API is not an easy task for someone like me a single developer who is working on this. And more important is it will not add additional features or functionality to my application, so writing code for replicating the same functionality through an API is a total waste of time.
Then ask users to visit the site or bookmark the page? why you need an extension.
Good question, My Extension gives users an Ad-Free OneClick speed test using a POPUP Window.
Users can run a test without opening a new tab and run a speed test on top of any website.
it is a convenient feature.
What is a redirect and what is a spam redirect?
You might want to ask the Google search team. They can explain this better.
How I ended up here?
From 2017 to 2018 I received a couple of comments that are valid concerns, looks like someone deliberately trying to degrade my extension repetition or it did happen for some reason but I never know what was it. At that time I was studying in college and I was not so serious about this project. so I never try to get it resolved with CWS. Now I think these comments are really hurting my extension. These questions are not valid, I never used inline installation (You can check history if available ). So still I don't know why I received comments like that.
Last week I decided to contact CWS and asked to look at this issue. They told me to send them screenshots and I did.
After few days.. My Extension was TakenDown!!!
Even if they have valid concerns regarding extension there should be an option to send a message to the developer before taking it down. In my case, I asked for help and they were trying to help. suddenly for some reason, they changed their mind and deleted the extension. This is how people interact in real life?
Games like NFS or GTA a Vehicle Takedown will only happen when we do serious offenses. I think in real life also it will be and should be like that.
So an a TakeDown without any communication is unjustifiable.
Like HRG said in the above comment "Remember... it's a dictatorship"
Yes, it is and we have no option try to do what they say.
So I added one more feature that can only be invoked using this extension.
Violation reference ID: Yellow Lithium
Violation: The item's primary purpose is installing or launching another app, theme, webpage, or extension.
How to rectify: This functionality is not allowed per Chrome Web Store policies. If this was the single purpose of your extension it will not be allowed back in the Chrome Web Store.
Relevant section of the program policy: Do not post an extension with a single purpose of installing or launching another app, theme, webpage, or extension.
Now the above-mentioned issues are not valid.
Feature of NEW Extension :)
1) This Extension will Show YOU your Network Connection Status. [WE CANNOT DO THIS WITHOUT this extension ]
2) If and Only IF you are online you can run a network Speed test [WE CANNOT DO THIS WITHOUT this extension ]
3) When you are online you can click the icon to invoke a speed test with slim UI. [WE CANNOT DO THIS WITHOUT this extension ]
Now this Extension has a dual purpose
1 ) Check your online status [WE CANNOT DO THIS WITHOUT this extension ]
2 ) run a speed test with modern mobile-first slim UI [WE CANNOT DO THIS WITHOUT this extension ]
Now I am waiting for the review.
Simeon Vincent
Aug 12, 2021, 9:30:13 PM8/12/21
to Duck Geek, Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com
Seems I missed quite a bit of activity here when I stepped away from the forums for a couple days. There's far many specific points raised in this thread for me to directly address all of them, so I'm going to focus on a couple specific points: how the single purpose policy applies, what differentiates other extensions, and a cuple notes on CWS review enforcement.
How the single purpose policy applies
For the most part, the Developer Program Policies attempt to set the boundaries of what kind of content should or should not be published to the Chrome Web Store. The Spam & Placement in the Store (the policy violated here) primarily focuses on the type of content that is allowed. As the the takedown email you quoted said, the violation was "The item's primary purpose is installing or launching another app, theme, webpage, or extension", then proceeded to directly quote the "Functionality" subsection.
My main goal here is to explain – to the best of my ability – the enforcement action and the rationale behind it.
How the single purpose policy applies
For the most part, the Developer Program Policies attempt to set the boundaries of what kind of content should or should not be published to the Chrome Web Store. The Spam & Placement in the Store (the policy violated here) primarily focuses on the type of content that is allowed. As the the takedown email you quoted said, the violation was "The item's primary purpose is installing or launching another app, theme, webpage, or extension", then proceeded to directly quote the "Functionality" subsection.
At the time of the takedown, the only functionality that aeghledigokaedmpimgnfplidhdhlchg exposed was displaying the openspeedtest.com gidget in an iframe. Whether you call it a webapp, website, or something else, the extenison's purpose was to show content that a user could access directly in their web browser. From the point of view of the policy, there was nothing about the extension that necessitated that it be an extension.
Is there a rule like this -> If true please say "iframe is not allowed here", then that is ok. - Vishnu NUK
I can speak to this more directly than the person that responded to your case could. Given current Chrome Web Store policy and enforcement, using an iframe to display a website's content and not otherwise leveraging the capabilities of the extension platform is not allowed. As it stands, end users could have a comparable experience by simply bookmarking the URL exposed to the extension.
What differentiates other extensions
What does the other mentioned similar extension do different, it is all about how you define thing for your actions justification. - Vishnu NUK
I have not looked at all of the extensions you referenced, but I did take a quick look at Speedtest by Ookla because I was curious. It turns out that this extension implements its own UI (no iframe) and the extension's background page implements its speed testing. While it does need backend services to communicate with, the extension itself is doing all the heavy lifting.
Notes on CWS review enforcement
While I can't talk about the internal details of review and enforcement, I can share some high level notes to give a bit more perspective on how it works for the Chrome Web Store.
As Hr mentioned, items are reviewed at two main points in time: on submission and periodically thereafter. In this case, you hit a third option: when something happens that makes reviewers take a closer look at an extension. It seems that your request to clean up spam comments made whoever handled that request ask "is there any chance that these comments are true?" and to look more closely at the extension. The end result was that someone realized there was a disconnect between the policy requirements and how your extension is implemented. That completes the review phase.
As Hr mentioned, items are reviewed at two main points in time: on submission and periodically thereafter. In this case, you hit a third option: when something happens that makes reviewers take a closer look at an extension. It seems that your request to clean up spam comments made whoever handled that request ask "is there any chance that these comments are true?" and to look more closely at the extension. The end result was that someone realized there was a disconnect between the policy requirements and how your extension is implemented. That completes the review phase.
When the reviewers find a violation in a published item, there are two primary outcomes: a minor violation is found, so the developer is given time to correct the issue; a more severe violation is found, so it is immediately taken down. In both cases an email is sent to the publisher email address on file for the extension. As I mentioned in another thread, your extension was immediately taken down. This enforcement is consistent with other violations of this type.
As a developer, I know firsthand how frustrating and surprising this can be and I'm sorry for the anxiety this has caused. The good news, though, is that you're not out of options.
Recommendations
A takedown doesn't mean you're out of the store forever, it just means that there is an issue with the extension that prevents it from being listed as is. No amount of telling reviewers that they don't know how to do their jobs will change that.
In your case the solution seems pretty straightforward to me: provide more functionality than the website itself does. The more distinct functionality the better. Off the top of my head, a couple features that you could add that would make the extension stand on its own are…
- track historical test results
- have the action icon display the latest test result
- provide automated, periodic speed testing
- provide a basic UI so the extension still shows something when the user is offline
Best of luck,
Simeon - @dotproto
Chrome Extensions DevRel
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Vishnu NUK
Aug 12, 2021, 9:43:44 PM8/12/21
to Chromium Extensions, Simeon Vincent, Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, ge...@duck.com
Thanks for the response. 
I did exactly that .
I got what what you and CWS trying to tell.
That is why i go ahead and modified the extension.
Thanks
Cuyler Stuwe
Aug 12, 2021, 9:45:51 PM8/12/21
to Chromium Extensions, Simeon Vincent, Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, ge...@duck.com
It took 8 years for your extension to be taken down, so the question “why are there so many others getting away with it” is a little disingenuous; It seems clear that the reason is that it takes 8 years for someone to bother tracking them down and removing them.
It’s a little ironic given Google’s stubborn stance against MV3 persistence that even Ookla is using the background script here. The “iframe-in-popup” method actually seems to align better with how we are being told we should write MV3 extensions. 🤔😬
Simeon Vincent
Aug 12, 2021, 10:10:55 PM8/12/21
to Cuyler Stuwe, Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, ge...@duck.com
TBH asking "why are others getting away with violating policies" is always a fair question. In the past year we've made improvement on review comms, but personally speaking I still think we have a good way to go on helping developers navigate review and making review more consistent. I look forward to when I can spend more of my time focused on those issues.
It's probably not surprising for me to say that I disagree with the MV3 comment. What I saw of Ookla's background script use actually matches quite well with the event-based model: spin up, do some work, spin down. Of course, I didn't do an exhaustive analysis so who knows? (Probably Ookla.)
Simeon - @dotproto
Chrome Extensions DevRel
Cuyler Stuwe
Aug 12, 2021, 10:16:25 PM8/12/21
to Simeon Vincent, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, narayanann...@gmail.com
Spin up, do some work, make sure that you nudge the service worker so it doesn’t fall asleep…
Works OK as long as your “work” doesn’t start to pass the 30-second and/or 5-minute thresholds.
If it’s a fixed-size payload or a longer-duration test (e.g. to suss out providers who “game” bandwidth testers by sniffing and providing high bandwidth only in short bursts), no dice; The user has to stick around and watch despite having no good reason to.
Simeon Vincent
Aug 12, 2021, 10:31:01 PM8/12/21
to Cuyler Stuwe, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, narayanann...@gmail.com
Why would they nudge it? Let it fall asleep. Taking a half a moment to start the SW in response to the user clicking "GO" is reasonable. If they wanted to cheat perceptual latency, they could post a message to the SW when the user focuses or mouses over the button. As far as I can tell Ookla's extension doesn't have the ability to do a >5 min test, so that wouldn't be an issue for them.
But I'm pretty sure you're talking about generalities rather than this specific extension. In that case, let's keep chatting in a different thread ;)
Simeon - @dotproto
Chrome Extensions DevRel
Cuyler Stuwe
Aug 12, 2021, 10:40:20 PM8/12/21
to Simeon Vincent, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, narayanann...@gmail.com
Yes, I'm just using this as a specific example where the extension spec discourages someone from going outside the norm to do something better than what mainstream tools provide.
If someone new wanted to come along with the idea to compete against Ookla, they might think up a service based around doing a >5min test under load to see how honest your ISP is being with you (or hell, even to check your own network equipment for consistent throughput problems caused by misconfigs, memory leaks in buggy router/modem firmware, etc.).
This kinda gets back at the problem I have with MV3 fundamentally, where it's being developed only with the notion to try to enable what already exists, and not really to enable what could exist.
It ties into this scenario here, because without creativity, you basically end up with a world with only a handful of mainstream extensions, with all other extensions being forced to be fundamentally redundant, worthless clones of better-funded projects. The new philosophy smothers the drive to do things in an interesting way to stand apart from competitors and be unique in a useful way.
It ties into this scenario here, because without creativity, you basically end up with a world with only a handful of mainstream extensions, with all other extensions being forced to be fundamentally redundant, worthless clones of better-funded projects. The new philosophy smothers the drive to do things in an interesting way to stand apart from competitors and be unique in a useful way.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 12, 2021, 10:59:12 PM8/12/21
to Chromium Extensions, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Vishnu NUK, Simeon Vincent
I already think like that and developed desktop apps for benchmark your local networks.
var dlDuration = 12;
My Speed Test tool is already capable for running a tests for 10 Minutes or even 60 Minutes or what ever the duration user need.
currently you can download the source code or docker image and modify index.html file that contain following the variables
var dlDuration = 12;
var ulDuration = 12;
You can give any number here for eg: 600 will run test for 10 Minutes.
I am planning to add a settings or options button on my app.
Where user can select
1) number of threads/streams of concurrent requests (currently it is 4 or 6)
2) Select a server
3) Choose the duration for download and upload
4) Choose UI color etc.
Cuyler Stuwe
Aug 12, 2021, 11:06:57 PM8/12/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, Cuyler Stuwe, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
If you added that kind of functionality to your Chrome Extension, then it would be hard to argue that it's just a spam submission.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 12, 2021, 11:17:26 PM8/12/21
to Chromium Extensions, salem...@gmail.com, Vishnu NUK, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Yes, I will definitely add more features like this.
I am just recovering from a mental trauma caused because of that surprising, unexpected TakeDown Mail lol.
To spend more time on this Extension I need to know this first " iFrame " is allowed or not.
Still, it is not clear. if you have a specific useful feature that is only invoked with an extension it will be fine?
I don't know waiting for a review, I submitted it yesterday itself.
Cuyler Stuwe
Aug 12, 2021, 11:21:31 PM8/12/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, Cuyler Stuwe, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
I'm not a Google reviewer, so obviously I can't say with authority what they will or won't approve.
However, I've written countless extensions and helped clients through the process of hosting them on the store, and have dealt with a number of rejections/takedowns successfully.
However, I've written countless extensions and helped clients through the process of hosting them on the store, and have dealt with a number of rejections/takedowns successfully.
The mere notion that you're iframing a site shouldn't be an issue; The issue is that's the only thing you seem to be doing.
If you do a reasonable amount of other useful things (especially if those things would be difficult to do without extensions), then it's much easier to make a case that your extension belongs.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 13, 2021, 2:43:22 AM8/13/21
to Chromium Extensions, salem...@gmail.com, Vishnu NUK, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Again rejected with new Violation reference ID: Yellow Nickel
I removed my description which was very long. And resubmitted!
Other crimes are not applicable to me i believe.
Hi there,
We regret to inform you that the most recent submission of your item was rejected. Please find the details below.
Item name: Speed Test
Item ID: aeghledigokaedmpimgnfplidhdhlchg
Violation(s):
Violation reference ID: Yellow Nickel
Violation:
- Violating the Chrome Web Store's "Spam and Placement in the Store" policy
How you can fix this
- Remove excessive keywords from your item's Chrome Web Store listing.
- Do not manipulate the placement of your item by any means.
- Do not post an item whose single purpose is to launch another app, extension, theme or webpage.
Relevant section in the Program Policies:
Spam and Placement in the Store
Repetitive Content: We don't allow any developer or their affiliates to submit multiple extensions that provide duplicate experiences or functionality on the Chrome Web Store.
Keyword Spam: We don't allow extensions with misleading, improperly formatted, non-descriptive, irrelevant, excessive, or inappropriate metadata, including but not limited to the extension's description, developer name, title, icon, screenshots, and promotional images. Developers must provide a clear and well-written description. We also don't allow unattributed or anonymous user testimonials in the Product's description.
User Ratings, Reviews, and Installs: Developers must not attempt to manipulate the placement of any extensions in the Chrome Web Store. This includes, but is not limited to, inflating Product ratings, reviews, or install counts by illegitimate means, such as fraudulent or incentivized downloads, reviews and ratings.
Functionality: Do not post an extension with a single purpose of installing or launching another app, theme, webpage, or extension. Extensions with broken functionality - such as dead sites or non-functioning features - are not allowed.
Notification Abuse: We do not allow extensions that abuse, or are associated with abuse, of notifications by sending spam, ads, promotions, phishing attempts, or unwanted messages that harm the user's browsing experience.
Message Spam: We don't allow extensions that send messages on behalf of the user without giving the user the ability to confirm the content and intended recipients.
In addition to these requirements, all extensions must comply with Google's Web Developer Quality Guidelines.
Robbi
Aug 13, 2021, 9:05:32 AM8/13/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Hi,
why stuff like this LINK and evey others extension "Offered by: Fun Network" are still in CWS ?
I mean: are they not committing the same mortal sin of Narayanann?
There are tons of games in the CWS that make use of a iframe with external pages
and the same games can be very well played directly from that external site.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 13, 2021, 9:12:06 AM8/13/21
to Chromium Extensions, Robbi, Vishnu NUK, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Strangely enough, youtube yesterday recommended this video to me. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl_H-e4UUiA
I never know the situation was this bad. Most of them are still present on CWS. Redirecting to surveys etc.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 13, 2021, 9:21:25 AM8/13/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, Robbi, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Showings Ads in IFrame, Just opening a webpage with no added features or functionality.
My Extension was already doing better than this. Maybe my time is bad.
Highway speed ticket analogy is VERY popular in Google Product Forums.
So i am not expecting anything better here.
hrg...@gmail.com
Aug 13, 2021, 5:26:54 PM8/13/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
On Friday, August 13, 2021 at 2:43:22 AM UTC-4 narayanann...@gmail.com wrote:
Violation:
- Violating the Chrome Web Store's "Spam and Placement in the Store" policy
How you can fix this
- Remove excessive keywords from your item's Chrome Web Store listing.
- Do not manipulate the placement of your item by any means.
- Do not post an item whose single purpose is to launch another app, extension, theme or webpage.
So, basically, you have to be a psychic to know what your violation is.
Is it that you use the same word too much in the description?
Is it that you are trying to manipulate the rating of your extension?
Or may be the extension is too simple and it could well be a regular webpage?
Let the try-and-guess game begins...
But avoid trying to much... otherwise... your extension is kaput!
Vishnu NUK
Aug 13, 2021, 10:48:04 PM8/13/21
to Chromium Extensions, hrg...@gmail.com, Vishnu NUK, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Is it that you use the same word too much in the description?
Is it that you are trying to manipulate the rating of your extension?
I was not even considered it as a source of traffic or encouraged people to install it.
Answer is i don't know.
Or may be the extension is too simple and it could well be a regular webpage?
It is how you view it
I saw this late night. They started threatening me .
at the end of the rejection mail
Important Note:
Repeated or egregious policy violations in the Chrome Web Store may result in your developer account being suspended or could lead to a ban from using the Chrome Web Store platform.
This may also result in the suspension of related Google services associated with your Google account.
And from developer dashboard- How to rectify: Ensure your item does not engage in spamming behaviors, and refrain from attempting to manipulate your item's placement in the store.
Basically they are saying i should not try to modify my extension or try to list it again......
Vishnu NUK
Aug 13, 2021, 11:16:51 PM8/13/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, hrg...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Why i resubmitted it because they where checking rules like robots, Not even looking at things for what it is.
I think the following things are more than enough for get it listed .
I think the following things are more than enough for get it listed .
You can run a speed test by just one click of a button.
- from any page without opening new window or website.
- No ads (NOT REDIRECTING USERS to Survey)
- Speed test start automatically when you click the icon. So you can save time.
I cannot do this or offer this feature to users without an Extension. or is there is a way? as far as i know there is no other WAY.
They are forcing what they think and what they want. to developers.
like write API, everything should be offline, reviewer must need to verify how it looks and what it does so NO iFrame please.
Like that. They must have a list of internal goals that is defining my useful extension as spam and spam placement on the store.
At this point NO robots can understand or solve this.
I am going back to other works, wasted 3 days on this. that is it.
Actually i think they should reconsider the risk of iFrame in a 450/700 or 320/450 pixel can do for it's users.
And using ServiceWorker alone i can implement all features Simeon recommended via iFrame.
So " Loading an app via iFrame " Should not be illegal.
They need to check how it is using instead of say No to everyone.
Other mentioned extension in my first post and my extension is doing same thing.. For user's it doesn't matter how we do the stuff under the hood.
My Application is written in Pure Javascript. 5.4K Gzip or 14K uncompressed. Total Application will com under 100K (95.3Kb)i believe. Like ookla i don't have to do any heavy lifting :)
I can cache everything locally using service worker then why i need an API? only CWS knows.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 15, 2021, 8:44:10 AM8/15/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, hrg...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Again rejected
Version
2.8.1
Status
Rejection
Violation date
Aug 15, 2021
Violation type
This time i have no plans to resubmit because i have no idea what to change or what the following mail mean.
My spam description
"You can check your device is connected to the internet or not and run a speed test from the browser toolbar itself. You can run a speed test on top of any website you are currently visiting without opening a new tab or window One-Click Speed Test by OpenSpeedTest with No Ads.
1) This Extension will show your Network Connection Status.
2) If and only if you are online, you can run a Network Speed Test.
3) You can click the icon to invoke a speed test with a slim UI when you are online.
One-Click Speed Test by OpenSpeedTest with No Ads.
"
+ Previously shown image , and the application .. that is it..
From Dashboard
Version
2.8.1
Status
Rejection
Violation date
Aug 15, 2021
Violation type
Details
- Violation reference ID: Yellow Nickel
- Violation: Publishing an item that violates one or more sections of our Spam policy.
- How to rectify: Ensure your item does not engage in spamming behaviors, and refrain from attempting to manipulate your item's placement in the store.
Email
Hi there,
We regret to inform you that the most recent submission of your item was rejected. Please find the details below.
Item name: Speed Test
Item ID: aeghledigokaedmpimgnfplidhdhlchg
Violation(s):
Violation reference ID: Yellow Nickel
Violation:
- Violating the Chrome Web Store's "Spam and Placement in the Store" policy
How you can fix this
- Remove excessive keywords from your item's Chrome Web Store listing.
- Do not manipulate the placement of your item by any means.
- Do not post an item whose single purpose is to launch another app, extension, theme or webpage.
Relevant section in the Program Policies:
Spam and Placement in the Store
Repetitive Content: We don't allow any developer or their affiliates to submit multiple extensions that provide duplicate experiences or functionality on the Chrome Web Store.
Keyword Spam: We don't allow extensions with misleading, improperly formatted, non-descriptive, irrelevant, excessive, or inappropriate metadata, including but not limited to the extension's description, developer name, title, icon, screenshots, and promotional images. Developers must provide a clear and well-written description. We also don't allow unattributed or anonymous user testimonials in the Product's description.
User Ratings, Reviews, and Installs: Developers must not attempt to manipulate the placement of any extensions in the Chrome Web Store. This includes, but is not limited to, inflating Product ratings, reviews, or install counts by illegitimate means, such as fraudulent or incentivized downloads, reviews and ratings.
Functionality: Do not post an extension with a single purpose of installing or launching another app, theme, webpage, or extension. Extensions with broken functionality - such as dead sites or non-functioning features - are not allowed.
Notification Abuse: We do not allow extensions that abuse, or are associated with abuse, of notifications by sending spam, ads, promotions, phishing attempts, or unwanted messages that harm the user's browsing experience.
Message Spam: We don't allow extensions that send messages on behalf of the user without giving the user the ability to confirm the content and intended recipients.
In addition to these requirements, all extensions must comply with Google's Web Developer Quality Guidelines.
Do you believe this was a mistake?
You can use this Support Page to learn more about this violation and get in touch with us.
Important Note:
Repeated or egregious policy violations in the Chrome Web Store may result in your developer account being suspended or could lead to a ban from using the Chrome Web Store platform.
This may also result in the suspension of related Google services associated with your Google account.
We value developer contributions to the Chrome Web Store, and look forward to helping you bring your item into compliance with our policies.
Thanks,
Chrome Web Store Developer Support
Vishnu NUK
Aug 15, 2021, 8:58:53 AM8/15/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, hrg...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
How to rectify: Ensure your item does not engage in spamming behaviors, and refrain from attempting to manipulate your item's placement in the store.
What does this mean ? can you please explain this in simple human understandable language ?
Honestly i don't know what to do next.
How you can fix this
"Remove excessive keywords from your item's Chrome Web Store listing."
Remove browser cache and refresh the page. My description is now only few lines, I don't think it has excessive keywords. If you think like that please write a description for me.. i am ok with that.
"Do not manipulate the placement of your item by any means."
I am not a hacker, i don't know how to "manipulate the placement" of my your item by any means.
Why you post a message like this, if i have any access privilege or power to do it. Please take it away. I don't want to manipulate my placement of my item by any means.
Do not post an item whose single purpose is to launch another app, extension, theme or webpage.
It is not single purpose item (It was not at the first place before you take it down without any warning) Now i update the app with some modification from your recommendation itself. If look at the version 2.7 and 2.8.1 you can see the difference. So i believe this is not applicable for me.
Please reconsider you decision or give me actionable useful instructions that actually help developer to get it back to the chrome store.
Have a nice day.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 15, 2021, 9:06:37 AM8/15/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, hrg...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Unpublished and Archived Extension myself.
If anyone know how to delete this account permanently please let me know
Thanks a lot for everyone who try to help me on this.
GoodBye :)
Message has been deleted
Message has been deleted
Message has been deleted
Robbi
Aug 15, 2021, 11:16:40 AM8/15/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, hrg...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Hi narayanann
You did the right thing.
Try now to ask the return of the 5 registration dollars fee
Then continues the detox path escaping from Gmail, Drive and naturally begins to use an alternative browser that protects your privacy.
You'll see that you'll be fine soon.
Message has been deleted
Vishnu NUK
Aug 15, 2021, 11:31:13 AM8/15/21
to Chromium Extensions, Robbi, Vishnu NUK, hrg...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Yes, definitely i am going to do that :)
I already built a. FreeNAS AKA TrueNAS because of Google Photos.
Also check KilledByGoogle They never keep promises. So never trust them with anything or integrate it to your core of business or life.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 15, 2021, 11:42:35 AM8/15/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, Robbi, hrg...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Hi, pyaeson
I know you are in a panic right now.
Report this incident to a police station near you.
Also, call google https://about.google/contact-google/
You are posting in the Chrome Extension support forum.
This is not the right place to ask for help
Vishnu NUK
Aug 15, 2021, 12:49:40 PM8/15/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, Robbi, hrg...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Raia.speedtest
Both of them are not my apps. I never ever listed a single app in Playstore.
See a widget is serving as an app on Playstore. But on Google Chrome Web Store it is spam placement.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 17, 2021, 12:45:13 PM8/17/21
to Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, Robbi, hrg...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Bye.
hrg...@gmail.com
Aug 17, 2021, 1:39:30 PM8/17/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, Robbi, hrg...@gmail.com, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Draconian law enforcement taking its toll.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 27, 2021, 2:53:33 AM8/27/21
to Chromium Extensions, hrg...@gmail.com, Vishnu NUK, Robbi, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
Now I am here to ask another question.
I personally used this extension along with over 60K users.
The extension is still working fine for me.
I need to get it removed from all users, including me.
What are my options?
How to get it removed from all Existing users?
hrg...@gmail.com
Aug 27, 2021, 2:07:35 PM8/27/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, hrg...@gmail.com, Robbi, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
It's not possible to do that. Chromium browsers allow the browser vendor to remotely disable an extension for all users, but not to uninstall it.
In your particular case, since the extension had an iframe referencing a URL that you control, you can make the extension useless by disabling that URL.
Vishnu NUK
Aug 27, 2021, 10:11:52 PM8/27/21
to Chromium Extensions, hrg...@gmail.com, Vishnu NUK, Robbi, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
I have not collected any data to identify the user is coming from Chrome Extension or not. Many other websites and Extensions on other browser platforms are using the same URL.
So that is not an option for me.
I am not the only one who experienced this see
Why is CWS Team doing this to developers and its users? Even if there is a 250000 Extension, Google must have the resources to review every single one every 30 days. to Ensure security, etc. Then why are they using some poorly written bots to do this critical job that affects people?
Message has been deleted
hrg...@gmail.com
Aug 27, 2021, 11:28:43 PM8/27/21
to Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, hrg...@gmail.com, Robbi, salem...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, ge...@duck.com, Simeon Vincent
The way to do this is to change the existing URL with a new URL on every place that you still have control of. Then, after some time, disable the old URL.
There are a number of tricks you can employ to tell your (taken down) Chrome extension apart. Such as:
- Lack of referer or origin headers.
- Add a JS Script that detects the browser vendor.
- Add a URL parameter in the extensions from other browsers.
Also, you can resubmit your Chrome extension with the change they requested from you. i.e. remove the iframe and turn it into something useless.
Simeon Vincent
Aug 28, 2021, 12:17:04 AM8/28/21
to hrg...@gmail.com, Chromium Extensions, narayanann...@gmail.com, Robbi, salem...@gmail.com, ge...@duck.com
Vishnu,
The updated extension that you submitted on August 12th was rejected with a Spam violation for the same reason it was taken down in the first place. While the email template was different, the problem was that your extension was effectively proxying a website inside an extension UI. The changes you introduced in this submission leveraged standard web technologies rather than extension platform features. In my opinion even if you had implemented that feature using extensions APIs it would not have sufficiently differentiated your extension from a website and would therefore still have been rejected for violating the Spam policy.
You've made it abundantly clear that you do not agree with the Functionality section of the Spam policy, but that does not change the fact that it is a policy and is enforced against. As you and others have highlighted, though, it is not enforced as consistently as one might expect.
Regarding the two Android apps you linked, if you wish to take action against these apps I believe your best course is to open an intellectual property complaint with the Play store. I'm also compelled to remind you that policies for Play do not apply to the Chrome Web Store and vice versa.
The best way to remove your extension from a user's device is to push an update that calls chrome.management.uninstallSelf(). I'm not familiar enough with the review requirements here to give concrete guidance, but I suspect that you may have to get the user's consent before removing the extension or at least open a new tab that explains that the extension is being uninstalled and why before it removes itself.
If your account deletion went through, the support team may be able to help you recover it and your extensions. I would strongly encourage you to reach out to developer support as soon as possible. While we have some protections to help users recover from accidental deletions, we do not keep data indefinitely. I think/hope the "month-long recovery period in case the data was removed unintentionally" described in How Google retains data we collect applies here.
If that is not a viable option or you simply do not wish to go this route, I think either the client signals or URL change that Hrg described are your best option.
Finally, while I empathise with how frustrating this experience has been for you, I must nonetheless ask you to make sure that your comments here follow the Chromium Code of Conduct. In particular, please keep your comments respectful, kind, and focused on the platform, not the individuals involved. Frustration, disagreement, etc. are fine, but being rude and disparaging are not. Additionally, I would also ask you to refrain from spamming your thread or derailing other conversations.
Your messages will be moderated until you can consistently demonstrate more restraint when posting to this group.
Simeon - @dotproto
Chrome Extensions DevRel
Vishnu NUK
Sep 3, 2021, 3:06:00 PM9/3/21
to Chromium Extensions, Simeon Vincent, Chromium Extensions, Vishnu NUK, Robbi, salem...@gmail.com, ge...@duck.com, hrg...@gmail.com
Simeon Vincent Encouraged me to trying again. I requested to reinstate my deleted account and got it back within few days.
Also recommended additional features that using the extensions APIs.
So i added result history
Now my extension can track history (Previous test results)
Used API chrome.storage.sync.get & Content Script.
Now clearly it's not single purpose.
Message has been deleted
Simeon Vincent
Sep 3, 2021, 5:20:18 PM9/3/21
to Vishnu NUK, Chromium Extensions, Robbi, salem...@gmail.com, ge...@duck.com, hrg...@gmail.com
While I had hoped that adding result history to the extension might be enough, I also understand the reviewer's position here. Let me try to explain:
The main point of the extension – it's single purpose – is to show the user a network speed test when they open the extension's action popup. The way you currently implement that feature is with an iframe of a page http://openspeedtest.com. As such, the primary purpose of the extension is to "launching another…website", which is forbidden by the Functionality section of the Spam policy.
As I suggested in your direct conversation, I think your best course is to host the HTML, CSS, and JS that you currently serve at the URL that your iframe points to inside the extension itself. This is what Ookla does in their extension. While I understand that this is not ideal, at the moment I don't see another way to directly address this violation.
Simeon - @dotproto
Chrome Extensions DevRel
Vishnu NUK
Sep 7, 2021, 11:47:06 PM9/7/21
to Chromium Extensions, Simeon Vincent, Chromium Extensions, Robbi, salem...@gmail.com, ge...@duck.com, hrg...@gmail.com, Vishnu NUK
Now it is clear. An IFrame is banned as Primary functionality.
Main application logic or functionality should be bundled with the extension.
Instead of sending "Yellow Lithium," "Gold Magnesium," Spam placement, Spam redirect, etc. Send the reason for rejection like the following message.
Please find details of the violation in your item below:
- Violation: Extension’s primary functionality is provided through iframe(http://openspeedtest.com/Get-widget.php)
- How to rectify: Functionality should be provided on the extension and not by embedding a web app or iframe which can be run independently of the extensions. For more information, please refer to this FAQ link.
Additional Information :
- From the extension title and the description the primary functionality of the item is providing the speed test. Adding the other functionality(Results history) will not make the extension compliant with the Spam-Redirect policy.
- Primary functionality of this extension should be provided using the code not through the iframe.
I think this policy is enforced since last year, August. I am not aware of these changes.
I still think a TakeDown without warning is unjustifiable. But it doesn't matter what I think, because mighty google thinks that is fair. So it is fair.
The positive outcome of this TakeDown
+ I learned more about Chrome Extensions and their capabilities.
I am providing Self-hosted (On-Premise) Network Performance Estimation Tool.(Docker/Source Code) from 2019 itself.
I think i can bundle this code to this extension and address this violation.
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