Safari users win right to sue Google over privacy

emehrkay · on March 27, 2015

This seems to be from the mobile iframe workaround that Google implemented. Apple decided that Safari should not allow an iframe with different source urls to drop cookies unless the user interacts with the iframe (clicks something in it). Google's iframed ads automatically clicked something in order to drop a Google cookie.

I feel that Google didn't get enough shit for this. They kinda get a pass for their shitty behavior.

SmellyGeekBoy · on March 27, 2015

Thanks for the explanation, I was genuinely struggling to understand what it is they actually did based on the story... I know it's intended for a mainstream audience but at least some technical info would've been useful!

Navarr · on March 27, 2015

While this is obviously great for privacy proponents - I still can't understand how, legally, Google must acknowledge and adhere to browser settings.

Does this set precedent for that?

talmand · on March 27, 2015

I suppose one way to approach that is to say that the fact they are placing a file or some data on your computer without permission through a workaround to bypass your chosen security settings really is breaching the security of your computer. Which I'm sure is illegal in most jurisdictions of the world.

toomuchtodo · on March 27, 2015

To not adhere to the user's wishes (in this case, through browser settings) is malicious behavior.

Navarr · on March 30, 2015

So then if I write code that works around an ad-blocker, am I being malicious?

I'm not sure those two are actually equivalent, but it feels like it in this case - in which case this would be pretty bad precedent.

gress · on March 27, 2015

They knowingly bypassed a security policy set by the user. That's classed as computer misuse in many jurisdictions.

gress · on March 27, 2015

Seriously - how is this downvoted by anyone other than a zealot? I am merely explaining how it could be considered a legal issue in some places. Not passing judgement on whether it should be.

luxpir · on March 27, 2015

Agreed with your point. Don't understand the downvotes either, but I think the general consensus at HN is to not complain about downvotes. Might be wrong, but it won't help your case if so. Still, your point stands.

eevilspock · on March 27, 2015

evil is as evil does.