When people use one of the major search engines, one wonders if they know just how much information they’re giving up to the company who’s service they’re using. Personal search data, IP addresses, browser types, and the list could keep going. What if there were a way to hide all of this from the search engines, specifically the biggest one – Google. Enter GoogleSharing.
In order to utilize GoogleSharing, you must use Firefox as it’s an add-on which is compatible with the browser. The program is rather simple in function, it uses a proxy service which provides Google with false information whenever a part of Google is accessed that doesn’t require a log-in.
Before going further it should be noted that this isn’t a Google hatred article. Don’t adopt the notion that Google is using your information for evil purposes. They’re a company which requires information to help keep their business running smoothly, it just so happens your information helps them do just that. Instead, decide on whether GoogleSharing is right for you based on how protective you are of your information. If you’re someone who’s uncomfortable with your information being used for unknown purposes then GoogleSharing is something to look into.
Moxie Marlinspike, an online security expert provides his insight as to what GoogleSharing is all about, “Your intent in using Google is not actually to share information with them. When you’re using Google you’re not actually trying to give them your personal information. You’re just trying to make use of the services.”
If you’ve used services like GoogleSharing before, then you know they can be a hindrance. They tend to take a bit longer to query, and many times, Google will identify it and make you use CAPTCHA before receiving results. This of course sets you back, and many times the hassle isn’t worth hiding over. With GoogleSharing, everything is a bit more streamlined and CAPTCHA isn’t an issue.
For people who put privacy as a top concern when surfing the web, GoogleSharing is an option worth looking into. If you’re someone who doesn’t care what Google does with your information, then you can disregard this article. Either way, it’s always good to be informed about where your information is going, and who’s looking at it.
