Your LinkedIn session may not be as confidential as you believe.

      A recent report indicates that it scans more than 6,000 Chrome extensions.

      LinkedIn appears to be doing much more than merely displaying job postings and connection requests. According to recent reports, the platform is also subtly looking into your browser configuration.

      A new investigation has raised significant privacy concerns, asserting that LinkedIn is scanning a vast number of Chrome extensions and gathering device-level information in the background. Indeed, it's as unsettling as it sounds.

      LinkedIn could be scanning numerous browser extensions

      The BrowserGate report suggests that LinkedIn allegedly injects hidden JavaScript into its webpage, which examines users' browsers for installed extensions, totaling over 6,000. The method is surprisingly straightforward (and somewhat deceptive). The script verifies known extension IDs by trying to access specific files associated with those extensions. If the file responds, LinkedIn confirms the extension's installation, all occurring silently in the background without any visible notification.

      LinkedIn collecting information about users' devices - BleepingComputer

      But it doesn't end there. Independent verification by BleepingComputer further showed that the platform is also gathering detailed information about devices, such as CPU specifications, memory, screen resolution, language settings, and even battery status; effectively creating a unique "fingerprint" of your device. Moreover, since LinkedIn profiles are linked to real identities, like your name, job, and company, this data could potentially be traced back to you, making it considerably more sensitive than standard anonymous tracking.

      Why is this raising significant concerns?

      The primary worry lies not just in data collection, but in the discreet manner in which it occurs. Users aren't adequately informed, and there's no explicit consent prior to the scanning process. Additionally, installed extensions can reveal sensitive information regarding job searching, finances, or personal interests, making this type of tracking far more invasive than it initially appears.

      LinkedIn claims this is for security purposes, but critics argue it oversteps boundaries. It raises questions about how private your "professional" online presence really is.

      Varun is an experienced technology journalist and editor with over eight years in consumer tech media. His work encompasses...

      Are you hoping AI can enhance your dating life? This actor’s experience suggests otherwise

      This actor turned to AI for dating assistance, only to face a reality check instead.

      If you're counting on AI to improve your dating life, Rhik Samadder’s recent experiment might provide the reality check you need. In his latest personal account, Samadder allowed AI to take control of his love life as part of a larger six-week experiment. He delegated aspects of his daily routine to AI chatbots, including crafting his dating profile, assisting with messages, choosing his outfits, and even providing conversation starters during an actual date. The outcome was less about romantic success and more akin to a social disaster.

      If TikTok doomscrolling wasn’t detrimental enough, it now has a hidden emoji game in DMs

      TikTok has discreetly introduced a concealed emoji game within DMs to keep users even more engaged.

      As if the endless scrolling wasn't already enough, TikTok has now quietly integrated a hidden emoji game into its DMs. The mini-game is currently active and functions in both individual messages and group chats. This gives the app another tactic to keep users engaged, even when they believe they've finished watching videos. It’s precisely the type of feature one would expect from a platform that has perfected turning "just five more minutes" into hours of use.

      How to change your old Gmail username?

      I understand that your Gmail username from a decade ago probably seemed appropriate at the time. Back then, online culture was different, and selecting a quirky, silly, or random email ID didn’t seem significant. However, sharing that old username with someone can now be uncomfortable. Finding yourself explaining why you still use it may lead to cringing or feelings of regret.

      The good news is that you can move on from it. Gmail now allows you to change your old username and choose something new, a name that better reflects the professional, mature, or simply cooler version of yourself that you've become.