Microsoft, Google and Facebook are working on systems that could mean the end of, or at least a vast reduction in, cookies those tiny files that marketers use to record consumers online behaviors, like which articles youve read, ads youve clicked on and items youve purchased.
On its face, this sounds like it should be a relief to many consumers: less tracking, more privacy. But in reality, the opposite may be true, says tech writer Bob Sullivan, author of the book Gotcha Capitalism. Youll still be getting tracked, and now youll be getting tracked more effectively, says Anthony Mullen, a senior analyst at Forrester Research. It should be noted Google isnt the only one snooping on Google searches: The NSA has reportedly hacked Google so it can spy on searches.
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