The latest Chrome extension to hit the web, ChatGPT Search, has been released by OpenAI, promising users an improved search experience. However, upon closer inspection, this new add-on feels more like a typical search hijacker than a beneficial browsing companion.
When installed, ChatGPT Search changes Chrome's settings, redirecting address bar searches through its own engine instead. This raises serious concerns about user consent and control over their browsing behavior.
Not only does this extension modify Chrome's settings without explicitly asking for permission, but it also forces users to adopt a new search engine, potentially disrupting their workflow and causing frustration. The primary function of a search hijacker is to generate revenue through affiliate marketing and advertising, and ChatGPT Search's behavior bears an uncanny resemblance to this business model.
Although the extension does provide users with the option to switch back to their preferred search engine, this process is far from intuitive and might not be immediately apparent to the average user. As a result, many users may unknowingly continue using ChatGPT Search, earning revenue for the extension's creators in the process.
The primary concern revolves around the extension's failure to prioritize user consent and transparency. Chrome extensions have become an integral part of the browsing experience, providing users with a wide range of choice and customizability. However, the presence of extensions that compromise these principles undermines the trust between users and extension developers.
Every user deserves control over their browsing experience, including the option to choose their preferred search engine and extension settings. It is essential for OpenAI to revise ChatGPT Search, emphasizing user consent and flexibility in its design. Until then, users will have to weigh the potential benefits of this extension against its capacity to disrupt their browsing habits and potential risks to their online security.