by Elizabeth Parsons, IT Services

In a recent upgrade to Google Chrome, a new feature has been added that prompts users to either 1) keep their local browsing data on this Chrome profile, or 2) create a new Chrome profile. When users select the latter option, their bookmarks and data disappear (because they have created a new profile).

This is causing some confusion, so we wanted to clear some things up. First of all: Miami does use managed profiles for our users in Chrome, but administrators do not have access to your bookmarks, history, or passwords. Second: The bookmarks are not actually lost. Chrome has simply created another profile to separate the personal and enterprise data.

If Miami users do not want to “lose” their bookmarks or browsing data (e.g., their Duo authentication cookie that allows them to remain logged in for 14 days), they should select “Keep local browsing data” and then “Continue.” Again, administrators do not see your browsing history or passwords.

However, if you choose to create a new profile, that will appear to delete your bookmarks and browsing history. If you (or your users) wish to retrieve that data after a new profile is created, please follow these instructions:

1. Open the Profile Picker in Chrome by clicking the profile icon in the upper right-hand corner of the Chrome browser window, usually next to the three dots, then click on the settings (cog) icon.
2. Delete the newly created profile by clicking the three dots in the profile’s box and then click Delete
3. Click on your previous profile to open that profile. Your bookmarks and browsing data should now be available. In case of multiple profiles, you may need to try and find the desired profile to use.
4. Sign in to any Google product, such as email or calendar. When prompted to create a new profile, check mark the box next to “Keep local browsing data” before continuing.

Please see the Knowledge article about this issue for more information: Recover lost Chrome Bookmarks after upgrading to Chrome version 102.

If you have any questions, please contact IT Help at 513-529-7900 or MiamiOH.edu/ITChat.