Olympia Mike on "verified only Flatpaks"

I'm curious your take on a recent update that happened in Linux Mint, and the possible knock on effect of it.

In the newest version of Linux Mint, they have filtered out ALL unverified flatpaks from Flathub by default.  While this sounds like a good idea for security and safety, this filters out A TON of flatpaks, and some of the most important ones.  The only way to re-enable them is to go into the settings and check a box with a scary message telling you that it's unsafe and not recommended.

Even though I'm a Nix man myself (take a sip), Linux Mint is my goto suggestion for most people just getting into Linux.  I also install it on hundreds of computers I donate locally here in Olympia.

This update by default filters out literally all the Flatpaks I install by default for these machines, that most people need.  Google Chrome, Zoom, Supertux Kart, etc are ALL unverified.

This deeply concerns me because it feels like a step BACK in time where people getting into Linux will just assume there is no software for it.  Flatpacks and Flathub were a HUGE win and step towards Linux becoming accessible to more people.  Now it feels like we're shooting ourselves in the foot again.

What are your thoughts on updates like this?