Microsoft slams Google for bypassing Safari security

Microsoft has criticised Google for bypassing security on Apple's Safari browser to access user data.

The search engine giant's activities came to light following a report by The Wall Street Journal, which claims the firm has been hording cookies.



"Apparently, Google has been able to track users of Apple's Safari browser while they surf the web on their Apple iPhones, iPads and Macs," said Ryan Gavin, general manager for Internet Explorer business and marketing.

"This type of tracking by Google is not new. The novelty here is that Google apparently circumvented the privacy protections built into Apple's Safari browser in a deliberate, and ultimately, successful fashion."

Earlier today, Google denied any wrongdoing and insisted that it was "mischaracterised" in the report. The search engine giant claims that it set up a "temporary communication link" between Safari browsers and its servers to conduct market research.

"If you find this type of behaviour alarming and want to protect your confidential information and privacy while you're online, there are alternatives for you," Gavin added.

"Windows Internet Explorer is the browser that respects your privacy. Through unique built in features like Tracking Protection and other privacy features in IE9, you are in control of who is tracking your actions online."

Google confirmed that it is now in the process of removing the advertising cookies from its servers.

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