NEWS  Security  January 31, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

In the realm of web browsers, Microsoft's Edge has emerged as a contender since its 2020 launch. However, what sets it apart is not just its features but also the relentless campaign by Microsoft to sway users away from dominant rivals like Google Chrome. The latest tactic? Edge's increasingly assertive behavior in hijacking open tabs from Chrome, even without user consent.

As highlighted recently by The Verge, users upgrading their Windows PCs found Edge automatically reopening after reboot, presenting all the active tabs previously opened in Chrome. This occurrence, seemingly unrelated to Edge usage or data syncing permissions, underscores Microsoft's persistent efforts to redirect user preferences.

The crux of this strategy lies in an often-overlooked setting introduced in 2022: Edge's ability to "import browser data on each launch". While theoretically controllable via settings, recent Windows updates have seen Microsoft leveraging this feature more aggressively, compelling users to import Chrome data with each browser launch.

Notably, during post-update setup, a new default option prompts users to consent to Edge's continuous data importation, encompassing favorites, history, cookies, and more from other browsers. While Microsoft offers a path to disable this behavior, anecdotal evidence suggests Edge may still override user preferences, importing Chrome data regardless.

This development has sparked concerns over user privacy and choice, with voices across platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and Microsoft's own forums expressing discontent. Despite community feedback, Microsoft has remained mum on the matter, leaving users questioning the extent of control they have over their browsing experience.

The implications extend beyond mere browser preferences, touching upon broader themes of data ownership and user autonomy online. As the browser wars persist, Microsoft's tactics serve as a reminder of the intricate dance between innovation, competition, and consumer trust in the digital sphere.  

In any case, this is a trick that could prove counterproductive for Microsoft not only in terms of user trust, but also in terms of possible new fines. In the past, for example, the European Union has demonstrated that it is particularly sensitive to the issue of privacy and user data, imposing millionaire fines on other technology giants, including Microsoft.

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