The Cursor Hijack Vector
Google Chrome supports an advanced API known as Pointer Lock. This API allows complex web applications (specifically browser-based first-person shooter games or 3D modeling tools) to bypass standard operating system input methods. When triggered, it hides your visual mouse cursor and locks all physical mouse movement directly to the web application, preventing you from clicking outside the browser window. While essential for gaming, it is a significant security vulnerability. Malicious websites exploit the Pointer Lock API to effectively trap you on their webpage, forcing you into a full-screen loop where you cannot easily navigate to the “Close Tab” button. You must paralyze this API.
How to Block Pointer Lock Access Globally
You can permanently sever the browser’s ability to hijack your mouse cursor via Chrome’s Site Settings.
- Open the Google Chrome desktop browser.
- Click the three vertical dots (â‹®) in the top right corner and select Settings.
- In the left-hand sidebar, click on Privacy and security.
- In the main window, click on Site settings.
- Scroll down to the “Permissions” heading and click to expand Additional permissions.
- Click on Pointer lock.
- Under the “Default behavior” heading, select the radio button for “Don’t allow sites to lock your pointer.”
Total Input Autonomy
The change takes effect instantly. Google Chrome will completely sever its internal connection to your operating system’s cursor control stack. The browser is now permanently barred from hiding or restricting your mouse pointer. If a malicious website attempts to execute a script to trap your cursor within an invisible bounding box, the API call will instantly auto-reject in the background, returning a null value. This guarantees absolute physical control, ensuring your mouse remains entirely decoupled from unverified web code.