Opera GX, developed by Opera Software, claims to be a privacy-conscious browser operating under the stringent privacy framework of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). As a European company headquartered in Oslo, Norway, Opera is subject to GDPR compliance due to Norway’s adherence to the European Economic Area (EEA). This regulation, known for being one of the world’s strictest data protection laws, ensures that user data is protected even outside the EU.

Being a GDPR-compliant company, Opera is legally obligated to prioritize user privacy and data protection. This commitment is further strengthened by Opera’s status as a publicly traded company, which requires a high level of transparency to avoid financial penalties. Opera GX users can trust that their data privacy is a top priority for the company.

Addressing Spyware Allegations

There have been concerns regarding Opera GX being linked to Chinese spyware. However, these allegations are mitigated by the fact that Opera operates under GDPR’s rigorous standards. Given the stringent data protection requirements, it is highly unlikely that Opera would engage in such practices.

For those who remain concerned about privacy, you could use alternative browsers such as Brave or DuckDuckGo Browser, which might offer better transparency and privacy controls. These browsers could be more suitable for users who prioritize privacy above all else.

Browser Telemetry

In 2021, a test on browser startup connections revealed that Opera GX was contacting a URL, likely for a weather widget. This activity, similar to what other browsers do to support their built-in features, was deemed non-suspicious. Such telemetry is a common practice among browsers, ensuring that they can provide relevant and updated information to users.

Overall Recommendation

While Opera GX provides reasonable responses to privacy concerns, it may not be the ideal choice for users who place a high priority on privacy. Opera’s efforts to address these concerns are a good start but we suggest that users seeking extreme privacy might find better alternatives.

For those looking for a browser that offers raw performance and privacy, Brave is recommended. On the other hand, for users needing extreme privacy measures, Tor might be the ideal choice. While Opera GX is a capable browser, privacy-focused users may prefer other options that align more closely with their specific needs.

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