Google To Combat Device Fingerprinting By Hiding IP Addresses
Google has recently unveiled a privacy initiative aimed at obstructing “device fingerprinting,” a tracking technology that recognizes users based on their computer’s unique characteristics. The feature, known as IP Protection, intends to mask IP addresses from domains used by third parties, including Google-owned domains. This move is a response to concerns raised by privacy advocates about digital fingerprinting, which the World Wide Web Consortium labeled as a violation of privacy rights.
The IP Protection feature works by routing third-party traffic for a set of domains through proxies, thereby obscuring the user’s IP address from those domains. Google software engineer, Brianna Goldstein, stated that the company is aware of potential disruptions for legitimate use cases, hence the focus is solely on scripts and domains that track users. This feature will be launched on an opt-in basis to ensure user control over privacy decisions and to allow Google to monitor behaviors at lower volumes.
Other browser developers, including Apple and Mozilla, have also implemented measures to combat device fingerprinting. Apple’s Safari browser has been masking IP addresses from known trackers by default since 2021. Similarly, Mozilla’s Firefox also takes steps to prevent ad-tech companies from tracking users based on their devices’ characteristics.
Google’s IP Protection feature is a significant step towards enhancing user privacy. However, the challenge lies in striking a balance between protecting user privacy and maintaining the functionality of legitimate use cases. As the digital world continues to evolve, the need for robust privacy measures becomes increasingly crucial.
Source: Google To Combat Device Fingerprinting By Hiding IP Addresses 10/24/2023
