Microsoft has recently released an update for its Edge web browser, fixing an issue where Edge was stealing data from other browsers like Chrome and Firefox without user consent. This has been a concern for users lately, as data such as favourites, browsing history, and open tabs were automatically imported from rival browsers like Chrome without asking for permission first.
The latest update for Microsoft Edge (version 121.0.2277.128) includes a fix for a bug where Edge’s import data feature was not syncing correctly across multiple devices.The release notes state that “this feature’s state might not have been syncing and displaying correctly across multiple devices. This is now fixed.”
Despite numerous complaints of this data theft issue, Microsoft has not acknowledged or explained the problem until now. The company has refused repeated requests for comment on why Edge was accessing and importing rival browser data without consent. Some experts have accused Microsoft of using spyware-like tactics to promote its browser.
The update suggests that the browser was not correctly syncing user consent preferences for importing data across different devices. However, Microsoft has not admitted to or apologised for the non-consensual data slurping.
The mandatory update is rolling out automatically to Edge browsers. Users can manually update to the latest version by going to “About Microsoft Edge” in the menu.
This latest data theft issue is reminiscent of Microsoft’s long history of using controversial methods to boost Edge adoption, which has drawn antitrust scrutiny in Europe.
Edge’s reputation regarding user privacy and security has been questioned due to recent incidents. Previously, Microsoft injected Edge ads into Windows 11 desktop searches without user consent. Experts will monitor Microsoft’s actions for any anti-competitive behaviour with their browser, especially since Edge has overtaken Safari to become the second most popular desktop browser globally after Chrome.
The latest update for Microsoft Edge (version 121.0.2277.128) includes a fix for a bug where Edge’s import data feature was not syncing correctly across multiple devices.The release notes state that “this feature’s state might not have been syncing and displaying correctly across multiple devices. This is now fixed.”
Despite numerous complaints of this data theft issue, Microsoft has not acknowledged or explained the problem until now. The company has refused repeated requests for comment on why Edge was accessing and importing rival browser data without consent. Some experts have accused Microsoft of using spyware-like tactics to promote its browser.
The update suggests that the browser was not correctly syncing user consent preferences for importing data across different devices. However, Microsoft has not admitted to or apologised for the non-consensual data slurping.
The mandatory update is rolling out automatically to Edge browsers. Users can manually update to the latest version by going to “About Microsoft Edge” in the menu.
This latest data theft issue is reminiscent of Microsoft’s long history of using controversial methods to boost Edge adoption, which has drawn antitrust scrutiny in Europe.
Edge’s reputation regarding user privacy and security has been questioned due to recent incidents. Previously, Microsoft injected Edge ads into Windows 11 desktop searches without user consent. Experts will monitor Microsoft’s actions for any anti-competitive behaviour with their browser, especially since Edge has overtaken Safari to become the second most popular desktop browser globally after Chrome.