8 WebsiteCompass Browser Fingerprinting Explained Browser fingerprinting is a tracking technique that identifies users based on unique combinations of information gathered from their browsers and devices. Unlike cookies, which store small pieces of data on your computer and can be deleted or blocked, browser fingerprints are harder to avoid. They’re based on information your browser automatically shares with websites to function properly. These details might include: • Browser type and version (e.g., Chrome 115, Safari 17) • Operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) • Installed fonts and plugins • Screen resolution • Time zone and language • Device hardware (CPU, GPU, etc.) • Even how you interact with a webpage (mouse movements or typing speed) When combined, this information can create a profile as unique as a fingerprint—hence the name. HowThis TechnologyWorks When you visit a website, your browser sends “headers” that contain technical details needed to load the page properly. Advanced scripts on the site can request even more data from your system. For example, they might detect which fonts are installed, check if you’re using an ad blocker, or measure how fast your browser performs certain operations. All this data is compiled into a “hash,” a string of characters representing your specific setup. While a single detail might not identify you, the combination of many can create a distinctive digital identity that persists across sessions and websites. Should You Worry About Browser Fingerprinting? It’s the hidden trail you unknowingly leave online Every time you surf the web, your browser quietly shares information about you—not your name or address, but a surprisingly detailed set of technical traits. This invisible profile, called a browser fingerprint, is one of the most advanced ways companies can track your online activity, and it’s raising important questions about privacy and digital rights. Internet Connections
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