A software developer has raised concerns about a hidden Google Hangouts extension in Chrome that cannot be disabled and may be used for tracking users’ device statistics, potentially violating EU regulations. Users are advised to avoid Chromium-based browsers like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, opting instead for privacy-friendly alternatives like Firefox to mitigate these privacy concerns.
In a recent viral tweet from a software developer, concerns were raised about a default extension in Google Chrome related to the now-defunct Google Hangouts service. This extension is not visible in the extensions panel and cannot be disabled by users, leading to speculation about its purpose. The extension primarily connects to Google domains over HTTPS and utilizes the system.cpu API, which can gather detailed statistics about the device’s CPU, GPU, and RAM usage. This raises privacy concerns since it operates without explicit user consent, unlike other Chrome extensions that require permission to access sensitive APIs.
Google Hangouts, once a pioneering web app for video calling, was phased out in favor of Google Meet, with its discontinuation in 2022. Despite Hangouts being obsolete, remnants of its code persist in Google Meet, which could be problematic under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA restricts large tech companies from giving undue advantages to their own products over competitors. As such, if the Hangouts extension is still aiding Google Meet while denying access to similar competitors like Zoom or Skype, it may constitute a violation of these regulations.
The developer’s commentary has led some to speculate that this hidden extension is spyware designed to track users more closely. However, the argument is made that Google already collects extensive data through its various services, making the need for additional CPU fingerprinting questionable. Regardless, this situation presents a negative image for Google, particularly in the context of growing public concern over privacy and data security.
Many users are unhappy about the presence of the Hangouts extension in Chrome and are calling for its removal. The potential for this extension to either be unnecessary bloat or a tool for data collection could prompt Google to eliminate it in a future update. If it is actively used for collecting device statistics, the argument for a DMA violation becomes stronger, possibly leading to regulatory scrutiny and fines for Google.
For those seeking to avoid this troubling browser extension, it is recommended to steer clear of Chromium-based browsers like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, both of which have the Hangouts extension enabled. Alternatives such as Firefox and its forks do not include this extension, making them more privacy-friendly options. The video concludes by encouraging users to consider other non-Chromium browsers to mitigate concerns over privacy and data tracking.