Why do people say opera gx is spyware

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: People say Opera GX is spyware due to concerns about its data collection practices, which include tracking browsing history, device information, and location data. In 2020, a security researcher highlighted that Opera GX's privacy policy allows extensive data sharing with third parties, including advertisers. However, Opera Software ASA states that this data is used for personalization and ad targeting, not malicious purposes, and users can adjust privacy settings.

Key Facts

Opera GX was launched in 2019 as a gaming-focused browser by Opera Software ASA.
In 2020, a report by security researcher Wladimir Palant raised concerns about Opera GX's data collection, noting it tracks browsing history and device IDs.
Opera GX's privacy policy allows sharing user data with third-party advertisers and analytics services.
The browser includes features like built-in ad blockers and VPNs, which some users argue could mask data collection.
Opera Software ASA is based in Norway and has faced previous scrutiny over data practices, including a 2016 incident where Opera browsers were found to collect data without clear consent.

Overview

Opera GX is a specialized web browser launched in 2019 by Opera Software ASA, designed for gamers with features like CPU, RAM, and network limiters to optimize gaming performance. It is based on the Chromium engine, similar to Google Chrome, but includes customizations such as RGB lighting integration and gaming news feeds. The browser is free to use and has gained popularity for its aesthetic appeal and performance tools. However, it has faced criticism over privacy concerns, partly due to Opera's history; in 2016, Opera browsers were found to collect data without transparent user consent, leading to trust issues. Opera GX's development aligns with Opera's broader strategy to target niche markets, but this has sparked debates about data security in the gaming community, where users often prioritize privacy.

How It Works

Opera GX operates by collecting user data through its built-in features and third-party integrations to enhance functionality and monetize via advertising. Mechanisms include tracking browsing history, search queries, and device information (e.g., IP addresses and hardware specs) through cookies and analytics tools. The browser's privacy policy, as of 2023, states that data may be shared with partners for ad targeting and analytics, using methods like fingerprinting to identify users across sessions. Users can adjust settings to limit data collection, such as disabling tracking in the privacy dashboard or using the built-in VPN, but default configurations often enable extensive data gathering. Critics argue that these processes are not fully transparent, with data potentially being aggregated and sold to advertisers, raising spyware allegations despite Opera's claims of compliance with regulations like GDPR.

Why It Matters

The allegations against Opera GX matter because they highlight broader issues of data privacy in the tech industry, especially for gamers who may be unaware of risks. If true, spyware-like behavior could lead to identity theft, targeted scams, or unauthorized data sales, impacting millions of users globally. This controversy affects trust in free software models, prompting discussions about ethical data practices and regulatory oversight. In real-world terms, it influences user choices, with some opting for more privacy-focused alternatives, and underscores the need for clear consent and transparency in digital tools to protect personal information in an increasingly connected world.