GoKawiilLinkedIn defeats browser-extension scanning lawsuits over lack of standing
A federal judge in California dismissed two proposed class actions accusing LinkedIn of illegally scanning users' browser extensions, ruling that the plaintiffs failed to show they actually had extensions installed that leaked private data to the company. Judge Vince Chhabria allowed the plaintiffs to amend their complaints but expressed skepticism they could ever establish a valid privacy claim, given that browser extensions are voluntarily installed and inherently share data with websites. One plaintiff's attorney says he may refile in state court or appeal to the Ninth Circuit.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The ruling highlights how difficult it is for users to sue tech platforms over data-collection practices when they can't concretely prove personal harm, even if the underlying surveillance allegations remain unresolved. It also underscores a legal gray area around browser extension scanning, a practice not widely understood by users but seemingly permitted under vague privacy policy disclosures.
- Judge Chhabria dismissed the LinkedIn lawsuits for lack of standing, not on the merits of the surveillance claims.
- Plaintiffs can amend their complaints, but the judge doubts they can prove they were actually harmed.
- The plaintiffs may pursue the case in state court or appeal to the Ninth Circuit.
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Published there as: “LinkedIn beats "BrowserGate" lawsuits over scanning users' Chrome extensions”
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