LinkedIn scanning users' browser extensions sparks controversy and two lawsuits

LinkedIn's secret scanning of user browser extensions for competitive intelligence has ignited two lawsuits and widespread outrage, revealing a troubling breach of professional trust. The platform allegedly harvested data from extensions like Grammarly and Honey to monitor rival services, a practice uncovered by security researchers in March 2026. This covert surveillance affected an estimated 15 million users, collecting insights into business tools and habits without consent. The tactic outperforms the average data-gathering method used by social networks, which typically rely on public engagement metrics. In comparison, #10 Iran-linked hackers disrupt US infrastructure with overt cyberattacks, but LinkedIn's approach sidesteps direct network breaches, making it stealthier and harder to regulate. The lawsuits seek damages exceeding $50 million, challenging whether professional networking can coexist with hidden industrial espionage.