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Device Fingerprinting
Tracking
Technique for probabilistic identification using device/browser attributes and behavioral signals.
Definition
Device fingerprinting aggregates attributes (user agent, canvas rendering, fonts, timezone, hardware hints) to create an identifier. It can persist across sessions and may be hard to reset.
In plain English
Technique for probabilistic identification using device/browser attributes and behavioral signals.
Why this matters
Why it matters: Fingerprinting undermines consent and cookie controls, enabling cross-site tracking even when users try to opt out.
Example
Example: A tracker uses canvas fingerprinting plus IP correlation to link visits across sites; defenses include anti-fingerprinting browsers and privacy budget limits.