Top browser fingerprinting techniques

Browser fingerprinting is a technique websites use to identify and track users based on unique information collected about their browsers and devices. This information can include HTTP headers, screen resolution, time zones, browser plugins, WebGL, canvas fingerprinting, as well as audio and video fingerprinting.

In this blog post, we will explore the top browser fingerprinting techniques and how to prevent them. 

What information is gathered for browser fingerprinting? 

Browser fingerprinting involves collecting various information about a user's browser and device that can be used to create a unique identifier or "fingerprint" for that user. Below are some of the parameters that are involved in the process.

• HTTP headers: Packets of information sent between a user’s device and a web server, including the User-Agent, Accept-Language, and Referer headers. 

• User-Agent string: A piece of information sent by a user’s browser to a website, which identifies the browser and operating system being used. 

• Screen resolution: A measurement of the number of pixels displayed on a user’s screen. 

• Time zone: A geographic region where a user’s device is located. 

• Browser plugins and add-ons: Additional software installed in a user’s browser, such as ad blockers or password managers. 

• WebGL: a JavaScript API to render 3D graphics in a user’s browser. 

• Canvas fingerprinting: a technique used to create a unique identifier based on the user’s canvas graphics rendering. 

• Audio and video fingerprinting: a technique used to create a unique identifier based on a user’s device’s audio and video capabilities. 

HTTP headers 

HTTP headers are packets of information sent between a user’s device and a web server. Some common HTTP headers used for browser fingerprinting include the User-Agent, Accept-Language, and Referer headers. These headers can provide information about the user’s browser, device, and even the websites they have visited. To prevent browser fingerprinting through HTTP headers, users can use a privacy-oriented browser extension or change their browser settings to disable or modify certain headers. 

User-Agent string 

The User-Agent string is information sent by a user’s browser to a website, identifying the browser and operating system being used. This information can be used to identify a user and track their browsing behavior uniquely. To prevent browser fingerprinting through the User-Agent string, users can use a browser extension that modifies or randomizes the User-Agent string. 

Screen resolution 

Screen resolution measures the number of pixels displayed on a user’s screen. This information can be used to identify a user and track their browsing behavior. To prevent browser fingerprinting through screen resolution, users can adjust their browser window size or use a browser extension that modifies their screen resolution. 

Time zone 

The time zone is a geographic region where a user’s device is located. This information can identify a user and track their browsing behavior. To prevent browser fingerprinting through time zone, users can adjust their device’s time zone or use a privacy-oriented browser extension that modifies their time zone information. 

Browser plugins and add-ons 

Browser plugins and add-ons are additional software installed in a user’s browser, such as ad blockers or password managers. These plugins and add-ons can inform the user’s browsing behavior and preferences. To prevent browser fingerprinting through browser plugins and add-ons, users can disable or uninstall unnecessary plugins and add-ons. 

WebGL 

WebGL is a JavaScript API to render 3D graphics in a user’s browser. This technology can provide information about a user’s graphics card and drivers, which can be used to identify a user and track their browsing behavior. To prevent browser fingerprinting through WebGL, users can disable WebGL in their browser settings or use a privacy-oriented browser extension that modifies WebGL information. 

Canvas fingerprinting 

Canvas fingerprinting is a technique used to create a unique identifier based on the user’s canvas graphics rendering. This information can identify a user and track their browsing behavior. To prevent browser fingerprinting through canvas fingerprinting, users can use a privacy-oriented browser extension that modifies canvas fingerprinting information. 

Audio and video fingerprinting 

Audio and video fingerprinting is a technique used to create a unique identifier based on a user’s device’s audio and video capabilities. This information can be used to identify a user and track their browsing behavior. To prevent browser fingerprinting through audio and video fingerprinting, users can use a privacy-oriented browser extension that modifies or blocks audio and video fingerprinting. 

Safeguarding your online privacy

In conclusion, browser fingerprinting is a concerning user privacy and security issue. By understanding the top browser fingerprinting techniques and implementing the suggested prevention methods, users can take control of their online privacy and protect their personal information from being tracked and monitored by websites. Remember, it is important to use a privacy-oriented browser and browser extensions and to stay up to date with the latest privacy and security practices to ensure the best possible protection.