Hello, I am currently looking into the security of Google Desktop and Toolbar. I see several articles online addressing the local caching issues associated with the utilities, but I have been unable to find if Google is actually collecting file information from the local files being cached/indexed on local disks. I'm aware they monitor Internet activity, but do you know if they also track any files or attributes of personal files? Also if possible do you know of any links to research done regarding this topic?
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I hope this answers your question. If you ask a file indexer to index your system it will do just that. That there is sensitive information on that disk that shouldn't be indexed how should google know that.
It might be a different thing on a system that is used by multiple users. If the sysadmin has access to all directories than Google Desktop has that right too. And that might mean that user A on computer C can also see the files of user B on computer C.
If you're asking for technical help, please be sure to include all your system info, including operating system, model number, and any other specifics related to the problem. Also please exercise your best judgment when posting in the forums--revealing personal information such as your e-mail address, telephone number, and address is not recommended.
Google Desktop Security
I am currently looking into the security of Google Desktop and Toolbar. I see several articles online addressing the local caching issues associated with the utilities, but I have been unable to find if Google is actually collecting file information from the local files being cached/indexed on local disks. I'm aware they monitor Internet activity, but do you know if they also track any files or attributes of personal files? Also if possible do you know of any links to research done regarding this topic?