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

Key Points:

• A report called "BrowserGate" alleges that LinkedIn uses hidden JavaScript to scan visitors' browsers for over 6,000 installed extensions and collects extensive device data, linking this information to identifiable user profiles.
• The scanning reportedly targets competitor sales tools and extracts corporate customer lists without users' knowledge, with LinkedIn allegedly using the data to enforce restrictions against users of third-party tools.
• LinkedIn confirms it detects certain browser extensions but states this is done solely to protect the platform from scraping and violations of its terms of service, denying claims of misuse or sharing of sensitive data.
• The report originates from a dispute involving a LinkedIn-related browser extension developer whose account was restricted for violating terms; a German court ruled in LinkedIn's favor, rejecting claims against the company.
• Independent testing confirms LinkedIn’s use of extensive fingerprinting scripts, a technique previously used by other companies like eBay to detect software on visitors' devices, typically for security and anti-fraud purposes.