Computer Support Blog

Google recently announced that they have integrated app activities into their desktop web search service.  This means that when Google users search for specific sites or services that use web apps—such as popular movie site Fandango—they will see aggregate information related to the web app.  For example, if you search for Fandango, promotional posters from popular movies among Google users at that time will appear to the right of your search results.  Clicking on one of these movie posters will link you directly to the film’s Fandango page.  If your search is more specific, the aggregate data will also be more specific.  Google means for the function to erase some steps when you’re searching for content in certain web apps. 

Google’s constant tracking of its users’ web app activity makes this functionality possible.  If you have a Google account, the global search giant tracks what you do in your favorite web apps and on your favorite websites constantly.  This allows the company to aggregate data on its users so it can tell those using Google search what everyone else is doing on those sites and apps.  While this tracking does allow for convenient new features, it also can lead to Internet security vulnerabilities and identity theft concerns if something were to compromise a user’s privacy by accessing that aggregated data.

Google also uses this tracked information to provide personalized search results for each user that are meant to give you more of what Google thinks you like when you search the web.  This prevents truly neutral search results when you use Google.  Other popular search engines such as Microsoft’s Bing do this as well.  However, there are alternatives such as DuckDuckGo, a search engine that does not track user data or personalize results.  If you’re looking for other ways to protect your identity online, seek computer support.

The web apps Google has announced so far as participating in this new feature are Fandango, Deezer, Flixster, Slacker Radio, Songza, and SoundCloud.  The feature will begin rolling out over the next few weeks.

About RESCUECOM:

RESCUECOM provides computer repair and computer support, 24/7: Meeting every tech support need including data recovery, virus removal, networking, wireless services, and computer support for all brands of hardware and software. For computer support or information on products, services, or computer repair, visit https://www.rescuecom.com or call 1-800-RESCUE-PC.

For More Information, Contact:

David Milman
CEO
david@rescuecom.com
1-315-882-1100

Filed under: Google, Internet, Internet Security, technology