Baidu Browser Leaks Personal Data

[engine]

The data transmitted goes back to Baidu's servers, along with enough information to get even more information, should someone decide to explore further. Baidu says it has adequate security installed, but it did not explain why it needed so much information.

Reading that report is a good reason to remove the browser if it's installed.

Citizen Lab said in its report that the Android version of Baidu Browser is sending a user's GPS coordinates and last update time, search terms entered into the address bar, and URLs visited without any form of encryption. The browser also sends the phone's unique IMEI number and nearby wireless networks, along with MAC addresses and signal strengths under a poorly implemented encryption scheme.Baidu Browser Leaks Personal Data [zdnet.com]

[bill]

Well, they're working with a captive audience or so to speak. I get the feeling that a lot of China's population somewhat expects government surveillance. That's what the Great Firewall is for. It's not just a physical firewall, but also a strong reminder of who is in control. The problem with this browser is when expatriates and Chinese communities outside China use this.

[lucy24]

I get the feeling that China's population expects government surveillance.

FTFY

Tune in next week for follow-up article detailing the differences between the behavior of Baidu's browser and that of other browsers closely associated with major search engines.