Chromium browsers have been quietly sending user information to Google
Chromium browsers send user data to Google via a preinstalled extension, raising EU privacy concerns.
Chromium browsers, such as Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, have been quietly sending user data to Google through a preinstalled extension known as 'hangout_services.' This extension sends information about CPU and GPU usage, as well as memory and detailed processor data, when users visit Google domains. According to Luca Casonato, a developer from the Netherlands, these APIs are not accessible to other websites, potentially giving Google an unfair advantage.
Non-Chromium browsers like Firefox do not have this extension, potentially disadvantaging them in performance on Google sites. Additionally, this restricted API access raises concerns about potential violations of the European Commission's Digital Markets Act (DMA). The API's restricted use by Google could impede competition, particularly for services like Google Meet.
Google defends the practice by claiming the data optimizes video and audio performance and assists in debugging and mitigating user issues. The European Commission is already investigating Google for possible DMA violations, and this API could be a significant factor. Unauthorized data collection without explicit user consent may be seen as a breach of privacy principles and could be scrutinized under EU digital sovereignty norms.