> Now why, I ask, should Google get something via wget from my machine when Vivaldi starts up?
What happens if you got Vivalid Settings -> Privacy and disable using of Google's DNS and privacy 
protection services? (I totally realize the irony of this - Google offering privacy protection 
against 3rd parties. Duh.)

> but my point is, I CAN MAKE IT DO WHAT I WANT -- and nothing else.
Yes, that's ultimately what matters. And I do respect your choice of browser. I also tend to be 
cautious when it comes to many aspects of modern technology (e.g. don't use a smartphone due to 
privacy concerns).

Also, thank you for reminding me about youtube-dl. I've used it once or twice but then completely 
forgot about it. I do wonder though - how do you know what to download without visiting YT?

Janek