Privacy Policy
TL;DR: We collect no personal data. The extension only adjusts Google Search pages on your device so the Maps tab and map thumbnails work again. Nothing is sent to our servers.
Overview
Return Google Maps ("we," "our," or "us") restores the Maps tab and clickable map thumbnails on Google Search for users in the European Union, where those elements were removed under the Digital Markets Act. This policy explains how the extension handles information when you use it.
What we collect
We do not collect, store, or transmit any personal information. Specifically:
- No accounts or sign-in
- No analytics or usage tracking
- No browsing history sent to us
- No location data sent to us
- No contact information from you
- No data sold or shared with advertisers or data brokers
What runs on your device
The extension injects a small content script only on Google Search result pages matching the domains listed in the extension manifest (major EU Google Search country domains and google.com).
On those pages, the script:
- Inserts or updates a Maps navigation tab that links to Google Maps
- Makes map thumbnails in results clickable again
- Reads your search query from the page URL and place or map data already present in the page HTML (for example, attributes Google rendered in the result) to build correct Google Maps links
All of this happens locally in your browser. The extension does not send page content, queries, or any other data to servers operated by us.
Permissions and access
The extension does not request broad access to all websites. Host access is limited to Google Search URL patterns required for the feature. There is no background script, no remote code, and no optional permissions beyond what is needed to run on those search pages.
Storage
The extension does not use chrome.storage or other persistence APIs. It does not
save settings, history, or identifiers on your device. Uninstalling the extension removes all
of its code from Chrome; there is no account or cloud data to delete on our side.
Third parties
When you use Google Search or follow links to Google Maps, your use of those services is governed by Google's Privacy Policy and terms. We do not control Google's products.
The extension is distributed through the Chrome Web Store. Installation and updates are handled by Google Chrome's extension system.
Children's privacy
The extension does not knowingly collect personal information from anyone, including children. Because we collect no personal data, there is no age-gated data processing on our part.
International users
We collect no personal data, so there is no cross-border transfer of your information to us. The extension is designed with privacy-first behavior and is intended to align with the spirit of laws such as the GDPR and CCPA, even though we do not process personal data as a controller.
Changes to this policy
We may update this policy if the extension's behavior or legal requirements change. The "Last updated" date at the top will reflect material changes. Continued use of the extension after an update means you accept the revised policy. Minor edits (such as contact details or clarifications) may be made without separate notice.
Contact
Questions about this privacy policy or the extension: [email protected]