Avast and AVG collect user info and sold it to other companies
Avast, well-known security software from the Czech Republic, is currently losing its reputation. After several data and privacy security crises, the company was once again exposed to problems.
When users use the brand’s security software or browser extensions, such as user browsing history, search engine search history, etc. will be quietly collected.
This data is then collected through the client or extension to detect user interests and then sold it to other companies to push precision advertising.
It is worth noting that Google has removed the extension after its problems were exposed. Now, Avast’s extension will no longer collect user privacy.
According to PCWorld Avast will collect records of more than 150 well-known websites, including Amazon, Google, Netflix, and Wal-Mart.
In terms of data collection, Avast will be divided into more than 1,600 categories according to data categories, which can provide complete insights into users’ shopping records and related preferences.
It is worth noting that the software will actively pop up the window to induce users to agree to the so-called data collection plan. Non-professional users do not understand these and therefore agree to be collected.
Although users have been explicitly informed that data will be collected, it is very surprising that the data was sold, which has caused users to worry about the security software.
Avast stated that the data was collected with the explicit consent of the user. At the same time in the European Union, the company also provides more privacy policies to explain to users, it will also pop up a window to explain to users to obtain clear consent.
However, Avast does not give users the option to opt-out of the privacy collection program, that is, users cannot temporarily opt-out of data collection if they accidentally join the program.
The company promises to release a new version of the client next month to improve this problem.
