Google Chrome Kind of Freaks Me Out
For years I accepted my dependency on Google applications.* Then came Google Chrome.
When the search engine launched earlier this month, my first reaction was to leave work and download it immediately. My second reaction was to acknowledge the reality of the Google ad-monster, and make an effort to avoid the glorified browser.
We all know that Google is ad-supported, but Chrome has taken it to a new level. The browser allows Google to track every URL, partial URL, word or phrase you type into the location bar (even before you officially search).
Google sends your cookie out with every search, then all of this information connects to your main account so ads can sprinkle down on you from all the Google applications.
Lots of folks have objected to this model, including the entire country of Germany. Google has reacted with slight modifications that claim to make the data collected from browsers anonymous within 24 hours. However, security experts say that this development is still entirely insufficient.
I say, fellow Google addicts, beware. No need to discontinue use of these great Google services – but do try to use wisely. Opt out of ad-targeting when possible and use a virtual private network, which will will seal off your online behavior from spying eyes.
LaunchSquad client AnchorFree has an amazing free VPN called Hotspot Shield. You can download it now. Then you can download Chrome, and enjoy Google again without fear.
*For the record, I regularly use: two separate Gmail accounts, two Google Calendars, Google Docs, Google Reader and Picasa. On a daily basis, I search: Google News, Google Blogs, Google Maps, Google Video, and the Google Search engine. I have downloaded the entire Google suite of applications for my Blackberry. I have bought Google domain names. And I have now downloaded Google Chrome.
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