‘ClearURLs’ Extension Banned From Chrome Web Store

There are many websites that have long URLs with extra variables whose function is to track your activities on the web. This can especially apply to links present in newsletters, to mention a few sites. The privacy of personal information and data is a constant task in the lives of internet users. Hence why the ClearURLs is a necessary tool for privacy-preserving the web when browsing. 

ClearURLs is a web browser add-on which when installed on Google’s Chrome browser (also works on Mozilla Firefox) protects your privacy when browsing through the Internet. It performs this function by removing tracking elements from URLs. 

Google, this week, banned ClearURLs from the Chrome Web Store. Though the reason for this action hasn’t been stated, there are claims that Google thinks the extension did not specify some functions in its description. It is then assumed that the program is being written with irrelevant keywords.

Kevin R., the extension’s developer, suspects that the tool has been excluded from Chrome for disrupting Google’s business model. However, what seems curious is the fact that Google gave no prior notice or tolerance before the ban.

Even though ClearURLs’ developer has gone ahead to appeal Google’s decision, it might take some time before a concession is reached by both parties.