Responsive Google

I tried to install Google Browser Sync. It's an addon for Firefox - the "alternative" browser for Windows users. "Google Browser Sync for Firefox is an extension that continuously synchronizes your browser settings – including bookmarks, history, persistent cookies, and saved passwords – across your computers. It also allows you to restore open tabs and windows across different machines and browser sessions."

Great! Let's get it.

Google installs this by attempting to invoke a "popup." There is absolutely no need to use this. There are dozens of ways of initiating a download into a browser, none of which trigger the multiple popup protection schemes that have been built into the browsers of today. Why does Google want to use this antique technology?

The short answer is: because it opens up your computer to Google.

The software comes from http://tools.google.com and the way to install it is to go into your browser, and specifically create a loophole for Google.

Google Firefox Extensions - Terms and Conditions Agreement

To unblock installation from Google

1. Click 'Edit Options...' in the bar at the top of the page. View screenshot The Firefox 'Allowed Sites' window will appear.
   
2. Enter tools.google.com in the box under 'Address of web site'. View screenshot
3. Click 'Allow' to add Google to the list of allowed sites, then click 'Close'.
   
4. You will need to click 'Agree and Install' a second time to begin installation.

That simple step opens your browser up to any popup Google wants to impose on you. All Google has to do, now, is make sure its popup comes from tools.google.com - and you'll get it, and anything it does.

What's even worse than this, is that it doesn't work! I still wanted to install it, and I opened up my computer. Nothing happens!

So I wrote to Google to report the bug.

Response:

Thank you for your interest in the Google Browser Sync extension for Firefox. We are actively working on providing more innovative Google Labs extensions to our users. While we are unable to send personal responses to all of the email we receive, we are monitoring all of your feedback and suggestions and will keep them in mind as we work to improve Google Browser Sync.

To further assist our users, we have created a discussion forum on Google Groups where you can exchange information with other Firefox extensions users. You can access the news group and share your thoughts and expertise at: http://groups.google.com/group/Google-Firefox-Extensions

Shall we meet there?

Tags: Google, evil, trojan

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