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Issue link: https://digital.macdirectory.com/i/1525170
Block Third-Party Cookies in Chrome, Opts for Privacy Sandbox In a notable shift, Google has decided not to phase out third-party cookies in its Chrome browser, a plan it initially committed to in 2020. Instead, the company will focus on its Privacy Sandbox initiative, aiming to balance user privacy with the needs of the ad-supported internet. Apple took a significant step in 2019 by blocking third-party cookies in its Safari browser to prevent tracking. Google planned to follow suit, aiming for 2022, then delaying to 2025, and now, abandoning the plan altogether. Critics argue this move prioritizes Google’s financial interests over user privacy, but the company presents a different perspective. Anthony Chavez, VP of Google’s Privacy Sandbox, explained the goal is to: “…find innovative solutions that meaningfully improve online privacy while preserving an ad-supported internet that supports a vibrant ecosystem of publishers, connects businesses with customers, and offers all of us free access to a wide range of content.” Over the past five years, Google gathered feedback from various stakeholders, including regulators, publishers, web developers, civil society, and the advertising industry. The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) was particularly concerned that Google’s plans could distort competition by concentrating advertising spend within Google’s ecosystem, prompting an investigation and subsequent commitments from Google to address these concerns. Google faced technical setbacks and regulatory pressure, contributing to delays in phasing out third-party cookies. The CMA’s intervention aimed to ensure that Google’s Privacy Sandbox did not harm competition. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a vocal critic of Privacy Sandbox, expressed disappointment with Google’s decision. Lena Cohen, EFF staff technologist, stated: “Safari and Firefox have blocked third-party cookies by default since 2020 and Google has been pledging to do the same since then. This reversal, after years of delays, highlights Google’s commitment to their own profits over users’ privacy.” Google’s Privacy Sandbox will coexist with third-party cookies in Chrome. Chavez emphasized that early testing showed potential for Privacy Sandbox APIs to achieve desired privacy outcomes while improving over time with increased industry adoption. The new approach will offer users the choice to manage their privacy settings in Chrome. While Google frames its decision as elevating user choice and balancing privacy with the needs of the ad-supported internet, critics argue it prioritizes profit over privacy. Google’s Privacy Sandbox will continue to evolve, but the decision to keep third-party cookies has sparked significant debate about the company’s commitment to user privacy. About SecureMac Founded in 1999, SecureMac (www.securemac.com) has been a leading contributor to Apple security since the 2005 release of the original MacScan anti-malware tool. In the years since, SecureMac has continued to play an essential role in providing macOS users with straightforward options for better security. From the development of the faster and more powerful MacScan 3 to the company’s ongoing development of online privacy tool PrivacyScan, users can easily equip themselves for protection. With the addition of The Checklist, SecureMac continues to showcase a deep commitment to accessible security and the importance of digital awareness for all Mac users. For more info visit www.securemac.com