Browser fingerprinting is a method of identifying and tracking users by the unique features of their web browsers and devices’ configuration. Websites or applications can get information from the user’s browsing system without leveraging traditional tracking methods that rely on cookies. Applications such as Octo Browser help manage multiple profiles, which complicates the process of detecting and tracking users. However, they still remain vulnerable to some methods of fingerprinting.
What Is the Process behind Browser Fingerprinting?
Each time you visit a website, the browser automatically shares some information to optimize your experience. Browser fingerprinting captures the following details:
- Browser details. The versions of installed extensions or plugins.
- Operation system. Kind and version of OS (Windows, MacOS, Linux, etc.).
- Screen resolution and color depth. The size of the device and its display capabilities.
- Time zone and language. Region-specific settings, such as a time zone and preferred language.
- Fonts and media codecs. Specific fonts installed and software used to render media files.
- Cookies and local storage. Available storage and cookie settings (even if cookies are not used for tracking purposes).
- Canvas and WebGL data. Techniques like canvas fingerprinting capture information about how the browser draws images.
By combining these elements, websites are able to create an identifier that allows them to recognize a device and browser across subsequent sessions, even if cookies have been deleted or the user engages in private browsing.
Applications of Browser Fingerprinting
- Fraud detection. Browser fingerprinting aids in detecting fraud or malicious behavior, such as login attempts made from unfamiliar devices.
- Personalized marketing. Fingerprints are utilized by marketers to trace users’ behavior on websites and offer them personalized adverts and content.
- Account security. Fingerprints allow a website to locate and identify trusted devices and flag anything new or suspicious.
- User analytics and tracking. It allows websites to monitor the behavior of users over longer periods without depending on traditional cookies.
Browser fingerprinting is an effective method of identifying devices by collecting information on browsers and system settings. This technology helps enhance security and provide a personalized experience to Internet users.
