Google rolled out a new program to pay computer users who browse the web so the search giant can collect data on every link they click.
“Panelists” in the Google Screenwise program will be paid up to $25 in Amazon gift cards. The payments are to compensate the panelists for allowing Google an insight into what sites they browse throughout the day.
Users are required to use Google Chrome, and download a Chrome browser extension which allows Google to monitor which sites they visit and how they use them.
On the Search Engine Land site, one blogger stated, “The timing of this program seems odd, especially considering the backlash that Google has faced over the upcoming changes to its privacy policy… Even though this Screenwise program is completely opt-in, some critics are bound to question why Google needs more data about web searchers and the websites they visit.”
Last week, European regulators wrote to Google CEO Larry Page calling on the search giant to halt the introduction of its new ‘one-size-fits-all’ privacy policy. The policy was due to come into effect on March 1, and would allow Google to share what it knows about users between services such as Google Search, Gmail and YouTube.
This move horrified privacy advocates and bloggers – tech site ZDNet indicated that Google would ‘know more about you than your wife does’ and said the policy was ‘Big Brother-ish’.
Although the Screenwise panel is open to web users aged 13 or over who have a Google account, the Screenwise page says that the company is currently “overwhelmed” by interest in the program. The search company emphasises that they have been inundated with requests to join the program, and stresses the fact that users can opt out at any time. Users are given a $5 gift card for signing up, then receive further $5 cards every month as long as they remain signed up.
- Everything eMedia Staff
