- 1. LinkedIn browser extensions scanning tracks 6,278 items as of April 2024.
- 2. List grew from 38 in 2017 to block scrapers, per 404privacy.com.
- 3. Milinda Lakkam confirmed quick blocks on users with certain tools.
Researchers at 404privacy.com revealed on April 9, 2024, that LinkedIn browser extensions scanning checks browsers for 6,278 specific tools. LinkedIn encrypts this list. It attaches the encrypted data to every page request. This creates a browser fingerprint—a unique digital ID from your extensions. The ID tracks you without cookies. Privacy experts call this invasive.
The scan began in 2017 with just 38 extensions. LinkedIn power user Milinda Lakkam reported that the platform blocks accounts using certain tools. Microsoft owns LinkedIn. The company links these fingerprints to user profiles. Firms like Experian match them to real names, according to privacy analysts at 404privacy.com.
Scans run across browser sessions. They work in incognito mode too. Users struggle to stop this tracking.
LinkedIn Browser Extensions Scanning Explained
LinkedIn loads JavaScript on its pages. This code queries your browser's APIs. It pulls extension names, versions, and IDs. Then it builds a full list.
LinkedIn hashes the list into a short code. The code goes into HTTP request headers. Servers receive it on every page load or click.
Extensions show your habits. Ad blockers suggest privacy focus. Productivity apps hint at your job. LinkedIn mixes this with profile data for ads and recruiting. Check LinkedIn's privacy policy.
Growth of LinkedIn's 6,278 Extension List
The list grew from 38 items in 2017 to 6,278 today. 404privacy.com researchers tracked this via GitHub archives and browsergate.eu data.
Scrapers grab profiles for sales leads. LinkedIn fights them to keep data clean. Clean data raises B2B ad prices. Finance teams love precise targeting.
Microsoft ties this to Azure AI. AI predicts user upgrades and churn. LinkedIn's 2023 annual report shows $5 billion USD in ad revenue.
Privacy Risks from LinkedIn Browser Extensions Scanning
Fingerprints dodge cookie blockers. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) says they identify 99% of users. LinkedIn ties them to emails and jobs.
Experian matches fingerprints to personal files, per EFF reports. LinkedIn may sell pro data sets. Users can't erase fingerprints like cookies.
VPNs hide IP addresses. But they miss extensions. EU GDPR eyes hidden tracking. Fines loom for violators. Job seekers leak resume tools.
How Businesses and Pros Face LinkedIn Tracking
LinkedIn claims 1 billion members, per its May 2024 announcement. Scans tailor feeds and boost trusted posts.
Tools like PhantomBuster get blocked fast. Lakkam saw accounts suspend quickly.
Finance wins from sharp ads and high rates. Privacy pushback risks boycotts. CISOs now check LinkedIn for exec risks.
Targeted ads drove $5 billion USD revenue in 2023, LinkedIn's annual report states. Recruiters pay more for matched leads. This tech boosts profits but erodes trust.
Block LinkedIn Browser Extensions Scanning
Turn off extensions before LinkedIn visits. uBlock Origin stops detection scripts.
Use Firefox containers or Chrome profiles to isolate sessions.
CanvasBlocker scrambles fingerprints. NoScript kills JavaScript. Report issues via Microsoft's privacy statement.
Future of LinkedIn Tracking and Privacy
Microsoft pushes AI ethics with Copilot. Scans stay for security.
Try Ceramic Network for decentralized profiles without scans. Users start opt-out drives.
Bluesky skips fingerprints. LinkedIn leads B2B nets despite fears. Pros build defenses. LinkedIn browser extensions scanning continues. Tools give users power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does LinkedIn browser extensions scanning track without cookies?
Yes. It hashes extensions into request headers. This works across incognito mode on every page load.
How many extensions does LinkedIn browser extensions scanning check?
6,278 as of April 2024, up from 38 in 2017, according to 404privacy.com researchers.
What privacy risks arise from LinkedIn browser extensions scanning?
Fingerprints link to profiles. Agencies match data to identities. Professionals expose tools.
How to stop LinkedIn browser extensions scanning?
Disable extensions, use containers or profiles. Tools like NoScript block scripts.
