Online user privacy is a concern for many of us. We input a lot of our private data into our devices, and it's scary to think of it getting into the wrong hands.
Unfortunately, there are proven cases of misuse of online user data by advertisers or hackers.
Although most of this is unavoidable due to our internet usage, knowing about it increases our knowledge of how the internet works.
It also gives us an idea of how to reduce this type of covert activity. An example is a technique called browser fingerprinting.
Browser fingerprinting meaning
Browser fingerprinting is the collection of data from an internet user's online activity to build a unique identity.
Just as the fingerprints on your hands are distinct, the browser you use leaves special markers when you are online that set your device apart from the rest.
This data, such as HTTP headers, contains information shared openly as a requirement for making connections online.
Some examples are IP address, installed OS, graphic card configuration, browser extension, screen settings, language settings, and time zones.
This data creates a unique print of a user's device when they are online, which is why it's also called device fingerprinting.
The fingerprint generated from this data is assigned a hash to keep the user's personal information anonymous while giving their device a unique identifier.
This Hash does not change even if you clear browser cookies or use incognito mode when online, ensuring the device is identified every time it connects to the internet.
The use of Hash in browser fingerprinting
A Hash is a string of numbers and letters that processes arbitrary-sized data into fixed-size values. These values make it easier to analyze, log, compare, and encrypt information.
Here are three types of hashes that are usually used in browser fingerprinting.
Cookie Hash: This Hash is created during each browser session. Clearing your cache and browser cookies generates a new hash. After some time, cookie hashes can identify multiple browsing sessions belonging to the same person.
Device hash: This Hash is created using hardware data such as device type and HTML canvasing from a device to create a unique ID.
Browser hash: Browser hashing creates a unique ID by analyzing all browser fingerprint data.
This Hash doesn't change even if the user clears the cookies/ cache or browses in incognito mode.
Using multiple browsers on one device, such as Firefox and Chrome, will generate different hashes. This also occurs during browser updates.
Therefore, combining the hashes we've mentioned above gives a clear picture of a device ID that maps a user's online movement across different sites.
Is browser fingerprinting the same as cookies?
You may mistake cookies for browser fingerprinting because they are used for the same purpose, but they are not the same.
- Cookies remain on your computer storage and can easily be deleted or blocked.
However, device fingerprinting data is stored in remote locations, which makes it hard to access, delete, or control. It identifies your device even when you are not logged onto a site or are in private browsing mode. - There are regulations controlling the use of cookies, such as the General Data Privacy Regulations (GDPR) that protect the privacy of device users.
Unfortunately, fingerprinting data can be used for anything because it is unregulated.
It is also indistinguishable from other forms of digital fingerprinting, making it difficult for you to know when websites are collecting your device information. - Browser fingerprinting uses public information to locate a device. In contrast, cookies use personal data with a user's consent to capture information for device identification purposes.
- Websites are expected to exercise transparency when using cookies by notifying users when they collect data and offering them the chance to opt out.
Browser fingerprinting occurs stealthily in the background, making it difficult for users to detect or negate any suspicious activity.
Methods of Browser Fingerprinting
Different techniques are used in browser fingerprinting to create an accurate device outline.
Combining these techniques clarifies a device's fingerprint, making it easier to identify it. These are;
1. Canvas fingerprinting
A code called canvas uses HTML to draw graphics on web pages. It generates device data such as background color setting, browser font size, and operating system.
This data creates a unique hash represented by a picture and text uniquely identifying the device.
Each device has a unique canvas fingerprint based on its configuration.
Combining this form of fingerprinting with others, such as WebGL fingerprinting, increases the chances of identifying it from the many in use.
2. Web Graphic Library (Web GL) Fingerprinting
Web graphic library (Web GL) fingerprinting is a JavaScript application programming interface.
It works with HTML Canvas to create two and three-dimensional images that can uniquely identify a device.
Web GL is similar to canvas fingerprinting because it prompts a device to draw an image in the backend from its graphic hardware information to identify it.
This image, together with its graphic hardware data, is used to configure a special hash that can be used to identify the device from many while it is in use.
3. Connected device fingerprinting
Connected device fingerprinting uses information about media devices attached to a computer to identify it. These devices include video cards, sound cards, speakers, and headphones.
This device information, such as device type, IP address, time zone, and CPU details, is used to assign it a unique print. When combined with Canvas/Web GL fingerprinting, it clarifies the device's identity.
What are the benefits of browser fingerprinting?
Fingerprinting is used positively to track user browsing activity and tailor their experiences.
It is also used by online security experts to track and block suspicious devices used by data thieves, such as phishing scammers, ad blockers, and bots. This makes it hard for them to conceal their nefarious actions.
Therefore, browser fingerprinting is an excellent addition to an online security strategy for any organization.
It is also invaluable in advertising because marketers personalize their ads for customers by assessing their online activity. This is called target advertising.
For instance, if a clothing store sees from your online activity that you prefer designer wear, it will send you adverts on clothing from several designers.
Conclusion
While it may seem like a massive invasion of privacy, browser fingerprinting is legal because all information collected is considered public information.
For this same reason, it is extremely difficult to avoid browser fingerprinting. Clearing your cookies or using private browsing, VPNs, or ad blockers cannot prevent browser fingerprinting.
However, you can use anti-tracking software such as Avast AntiTrack to fight online fingerprinting to some degree.
This software has advanced anti-fingering technology that hides your true device identity when trackers try to collect your digital data. It also warns users of tracking attempts.
If browser fingerprinting is something you could be worried about, download Avast AntiTrack today for your peace of mind.
By : Lilian Aciro Kariuki
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