Microsoft’s free Bing Wallpaper app for Windows users has sparked controversy after a teardown revealed that it secretly decrypts Chrome tracking cookies and installs Bing search engine. The app, designed to freshen up the Windows 11 experience with high-quality images, is now being accused of having malicious practices.
According to a user who discovered the issue, the app automatically sets Bing as the default search engine on Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browsers. This has raised concerns among users about data gathering and potential malware-like behavior.
Microsoft has responded, stating that the app does not decrypt all user Edge and Chrome cookies but performs a Bing cookie check to avoid repeatedly offering users the Bing app if it’s already installed. However, this explanation has been met with skepticism, and many experts are calling for caution when installing the app.
As one security expert warned, “if the app is free, the company will surely seek some way to monetize it.” The incident highlights Microsoft’s tactics of promoting its own products over competitors, a practice that has raised concerns about data gathering and surveillance. Users are advised to avoid installing the app until further information becomes available.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2024/12/01/microsoft-windows-warning-do-not-install-this-app-on-your-pc