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ONE Sentinel

securitySecurity/THREATS/HIGH

LinkedIn secretly scans for 6,000+ Chrome extensions, collects data

sourceBleeping Computer
calendar_todayApril 3, 2026
schedule1 min read
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

LinkedIn's Covert Browser Extension Scanning Raises Privacy Concerns

Summary

The article discusses LinkedIn's use of hidden JavaScript scripts to scan users' browsers for installed Chrome extensions and collect device data. This practice, part of a report called "BrowserGate," has raised significant privacy concerns.

Key Points

  • LinkedIn, owned by Microsoft, is reportedly scanning over 6,000 Chrome extensions.
  • The scanning is performed using hidden JavaScript scripts on LinkedIn's website.
  • This activity has been highlighted in a report named "BrowserGate."
  • The data collection includes information about installed browser extensions and device data.

Analysis

The revelation that LinkedIn is scanning browsers for extensions without user consent highlights significant privacy and ethical concerns. This practice could potentially expose sensitive information about users' browsing habits and installed software, raising questions about user consent and data protection practices.

Conclusion

IT professionals should be aware of LinkedIn's data collection practices and consider implementing browser privacy measures. Regular audits of browser extensions and privacy settings are recommended to safeguard against unauthorized data collection.