I think we need to expand on the section below specifically, as if readers understand the general mechanism by which these tracking methods work they can be more aware of the threats to their privacy and how to combat them:
Online, you can be tracked via a variety of methods, including but not limited to:
- Your IP address
- Browser cookies
- The data you submit to websites
- Your browser or device fingerprint
- Payment method correlation
If you’re concerned about mass surveillance programs, you can use strategies like compartmentalizing your online identities, blending in with other users, or, whenever possible, simply avoiding giving out identifying information.
For example I was curious how cookies could be used to track me so I searched: How can browser cookies be used for tracking? on Bing AI.
This yielded a very informative answer (which is a surprise, considering AI is rubbish):
Browser cookies, also known as “HTTP cookies,” are small text files that websites store on your computer to help track your activity. Most cookies are used to track what sites you’re logged in to and your local settings on those sites. However, there’s a specific type of cookie called third-party tracking cookies that pose the greatest risk to your privacy. Let me explain further:
- Session Cookies: These are the most basic type of cookies. They exist only in temporary memory and are deleted when you close your browser. For example, session cookies remember what’s in your shopping cart on an e-commerce site.
- First-Party Persistent Cookies: These cookies are written onto your device’s memory and have an expiration date. They’re used by the website that created them and can last as long as the website dictates. For instance, they help remember that you’re signed in so you don’t need to log in every time you visit the same site.
- Third-Party Persistent Cookies (Tracking Cookies): These are the focus here. Like first-party cookies, they’re stored in your device’s memory and have an expiration date. However, third-party persistent cookies are accessed on websites that didn’t create them. Advertisers often use these cookies to track your behavior across different sites, creating a browsing history over time¹².
Why Are Tracking Cookies a Concern?
- Privacy advocates worry about tracking cookies because they can compile long-term records of individuals’ browsing histories.
- European and U.S. lawmakers have taken action to address this privacy concern.
- European law requires websites targeting EU member states to gain “informed consent” from users before storing non-essential cookies on their devices⁶.
How Can You Control Cookies?- Block Third-Party/Advertiser Cookies: Configure your browser settings to block these cookies. While it’s not foolproof, it’s a start.
- Use Browser Extensions: Consider using extensions like Click&Clean (available for Chrome and Firefox) to manage cookies.
- Clear Browsing Data: Regularly clear cookies and cached images/files from your browser settings.
- Be Informed: Understand how cookies work and make informed choices about your privacy⁵.
Remember, cookies play a crucial role in web functionality, but being aware of their use and managing them wisely can help protect your privacy online.
This is super creepy, it appears that the browser and operating system are collaborating to enable this functionality. This goes to show you the money that is involved in this industry. This info implies third-party cookies have no practical functionality for users. It would be awesome to include this info.
Could also expand on this, specifically what these backups plans are:
You must always consider the risks of trying to bypass censorship, the potential consequences, and how sophisticated your adversary may be. You should be cautious with your software selection, and have a backup plan in case you are caught.