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Your web browser may be spying on you — Even without cookies
- New research from Texas A&M University reveals that many websites use browser fingerprinting to track users even after clearing cookies.
- Browser fingerprinting involves collecting details such as screen size, device type, and time zone to create a unique identifier.
- Unlike cookies, browser fingerprints are difficult to hide, making it challenging for users to maintain privacy online.
- Dr. Nitesh Saxena led the study, providing clear evidence that companies actively utilize fingerprinting for tracking.
- The study introduced a tool called FPTrace to uncover how websites and ads responded to altered browser fingerprints.
- Websites continued tracking users with fingerprints even when cookies were cleared, sharing data with advertisers in real time.
- The researchers discovered that users were tracked using fingerprints even if they had opted out under privacy laws like GDPR or CCPA.
- Current privacy tools and browsers are inadequate to prevent fingerprinting, necessitating stronger protections and regulations.
- Collaborating with Johns Hopkins University, the researchers stress the need for transparency and enhanced privacy safeguards for internet users.
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