Google Removes AVG and Avast Browser Extensions from Chrome Webstore Over Spying Issues

Venustus

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Dec 30, 2012
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Research from an ad-blocking founder has revealed that popular browser extensions are unlawfully collecting user data. These are the extensions from famous Antivirus Companies, Avast, and AVG. As allegations turned out to be true, they were now removed from Chrome’s Web Store.
Chrome web store is more like Playstore or Appstore but in the web version of the browser. No one would think that even the tiny extensions could spy on users. Here’s a story of four browser extensions collecting more than data than needed and being delisted from stores.
 

Bryan320

Level 8
Oct 11, 2019
293
Back in the windows XP and windows 8 days I used Avast they continued to add more and more junk into the product as well as intrusive advertisements tactics along with bundle software (usually google chrome.) We lost Avast but now have windows defender that's now constantly improving.
 

Lenny_Fox

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I recall that a few years back, Avast also was accused of collecting data through its chrome extension. But in those days I was not into security like nowadays, so maybe I am confusing Avast with another security company. Can some of the seasoned members provide some insights on this. Am I imaging something or is this the second Avast is caught with their hand in the cookie jar?
 

plat

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Sep 13, 2018
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I wonder if this will have a ripple effect on Avast's user base. Negatively. I already read elsewhere where someone says "I use Avast" and the reply is" no, remove that. Don't use that." I mean, the end-action was the same as if Google had found malicious apps in its Store. Simply removing them.

Norton asks sometimes if I would send anonymous user data to them. I say "OK." At least they ask. Avast just takes.
 

show-Zi

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Jan 28, 2018
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Will the extension be deleted in this chrome-derived browser?:unsure::coffee:
Avast-Secure-Browser-5.png
 

fabiobr

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Mar 28, 2019
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Im pretty sure only kaspersky is the only other one that used to be collecting and selling your info, but right now they are very vocal about it and making you able to choose if you want them to use your data for marketing purposes.
At least the KSN data they say that they don't use it for marketing of the company and don't sell to third part, I read the EULA.

Usually, I receive email from Avira, Avast and Norton. I only receive emails from Kaspersky because I signed their blog newsletter.
 

EndangeredPootis

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Sep 8, 2019
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At least the KSN data they say that they don't use it for marketing of the company and don't sell to third part, I read the EULA.

Usually, I receive email from Avira, Avast and Norton. I only receive emails from Kaspersky because I signed their blog newsletter.
When you first install kaspersky you will be able to accept or decline an offer saying if they can use your data for marketing purposes, its even in the settings.
 

SeriousHoax

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Mar 16, 2019
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When you first install kaspersky you will be able to accept or decline an offer saying if they can use your data for marketing purposes, its even in the settings.
Didn't notice whether during installation the option exist for other regions but in settings the option is only available for the En-Gb version. It should be there for all versions.
 

mkoundo

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Jul 21, 2017
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I wonder if this will have a ripple effect on Avast's user base. Negatively. I already read elsewhere where someone says "I use Avast" and the reply is" no, remove that. Don't use that."

-1 avast user here after 15+ years. Luckliy I never used the browser extension. Shame they're shooting themselves in the foot as avast is very light and has good protection in hardened aggressive mode. :LOL:
 

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