Google Crome

[Nick29]

Google search does put a tracking cookie on your computer - if they didn't, they wouldn't be able to store your search settings.  That gives them the ability to do all sorts of stuff, but no-one except Google knows what they actually do with this data.  It's very easy to get paranoid about all this, but as long as you have the usual firewall and virus precautions in place, I wouldn't lose any sleep over it 

[Family Tree Maker]

Google Chrome has got much better recently. And Google wont be collecting your personal data unless you are signed in.

[stevieuk]

Make sure you are running version 4.0.249.89.

Versions prior to this had Highly critical vulnerabilities which have been patched in the newer version.

Not to shabby on issuing a fix about 5days.

[downside]

And Google wont be collecting your personal data unless you are signed in.

That doesn't sound too reassuring somehow.

That means they only stalk you when you are logged in? 

[stevieuk]

Google along with most internet companies Stalk you to some degree or other....

HM Gov stalks you at ALL times whether its internet or otherwise..

[downside]

OK I am now totally paranoid and I will never use the Internet again. 

[Nick29]

Google Chrome has got much better recently. And Google wont be collecting your personal data unless you are signed in.

I suggest you look up the words tracking cookie (use Google if you like  ) - you don't have to sign in to get one (on any site) - Google are by no means the only ones to use them. 

[downside]

I see Google are also in trouble over Buzz.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/8519314.stm