Google, Apple also gather location data via computers: report(your PC tracked)

Xinhua ^ | 04/26/11

[TigerLikesRooster]

Google, Apple also gather location data via computers: report

SAN FRANCISCO, April 26 (Xinhua) -- Google Inc. and Apple Inc. also collect location data from computers, according to new reports in the U.S. media Tuesday amid privacy concerns over the technology giants tracking mobile phone users.

The two companies obtained the information after a computer scans the area around itself for available Wi-Fi wireless networks, typically after users give a website permission to determine the computer's approximate location, The Wall Street Journal said in a report on its website.

Google is believed to gather the location data through software in its Chrome browser or search toolbar. The same software can also be found in other browsers, such as Microsoft Corp's Internet Explorer and Mozilla Corp's Firefox.

When users explicitly agree to let certain websites find their location, their computers will scan for nearby available Wi-Fi networks, and then the Google browser or toolbar will send the information back to Google's location database.

Apple's method of gathering location information was disclosed in a letter last year from its executives to the U.S. federal lawmakers, The Wall Street Journal said.

[Sherman Logan]

I’m unclear why this is some sort of surprise.

When I google a term, it responds with local ads when I’m at home.

When I travel, it automatically adjusts to the new location.

It’s pretty clear Google has been determining my approximate location without my specifically entering it.

[668 - Neighbor of the Beast]

Would this be a good place to ask a fairly simple question I haven’t the skill to figger out for myself?
How do I block google analytics? The regular blocking method doesn’t seem to be able to handle the job.
Yeah, I am logged in :)

[longtermmemmory]

Jobs announce the new Iphone, the model 1984.

[taildragger]

It is not the best searcher ( ixquick) , but it is time to say good bye to google. I only use google for in depth searches of non politcal or other sensitive items ( I must admit their patent search is good ) that the Obama and their minions could have access too at some point. Here is your alternative: http://www.ixquick.com/

[Dr. Sivana]

How do I block google analytics? The regular blocking method doesn’t seem to be able to handle the job.

Ghostery deals with that and a whole lot more.

[TalonDJ]

Is that funny? Anyone that thinks this is news does not know how the internet or cellphones work.

[668 - Neighbor of the Beast]

Thanks! I’ll go there and self-eddicate!

[ScreamingFist]

Ghostery deals with that and a whole lot more.

Oh that is sweet! It didn't even know Google Analytics was on FR......I just blocked it. Thanks for the tip FRiend!

[Texas Fossil]

I love this pic that Scroogle.org put out concerning Goggle’s wifi monitoring.

http://www.scroogle.org/gifs/goosniff.jpg

hee hee hee