Covert Data Probing
A recent investigative report has brought to light significant privacy concerns surrounding the professional networking platform, LinkedIn. According to findings
published by Fairlinked eV, the Microsoft-owned entity is alleged to be engaging in what could be described as covert data collection from users who visit its website. This practice reportedly involves the deployment of a hidden JavaScript code, a finding corroborated by tech news outlet BleepingComputer. The primary objective of this hidden script appears to be the extensive probing of over 6,000 Chrome browser extensions. This suggests a broad-reaching attempt to glean information beyond typical website interactions, raising questions about the extent of user awareness and consent regarding such data gathering activities.
Third-Party Data Sharing
Further adding to the gravity of the situation, the report claims that the data procured through these means is not kept solely within LinkedIn's purview. Instead, it is allegedly shared with various third-party firms. Among these recipients, the report specifically points to an American-Israeli cybersecurity company. This practice of sharing user data with external entities, especially those focused on security, opens up a complex web of potential data usage scenarios and privacy implications. The lack of explicit user consent for such extensive data sharing with multiple external partners raises substantial ethical and legal questions about how user information is being handled and protected in the digital realm.
