Microsoft has announced that the next version of its web browser, Internet Explorer 9, will feature an anti-tracking tool, which will allow users to stop websites from tracking their online activity.
Microsoft is adding ‘Tracking Lists’ to IE9, which will allow users to choose which third-party website content can track their online history. Users will have to opt in to turn the feature on in the browser.
Today, consumers share information with more websites than the ones they see in the address bar in their browser. This is inherent in the design of the web and simply how the web works, and it has potentially unintended consequences. As consumers visit one site, many other sites receive information about their activities.
Understanding Tracking Lists
The introduction of ‘Tracking Lists’ in Internet Explorer 9 is a significant step towards enhancing user privacy. These lists will enable users to create a personalized list of websites that are allowed or disallowed from tracking their online behavior. This feature is particularly important in an age where online privacy concerns are at an all-time high. By giving users the power to control who can track their activities, Microsoft is addressing a critical need for more transparent and user-centric privacy controls.
For example, if a user frequently visits news websites but does not want these sites to track their reading habits, they can add these sites to their Tracking List. This will prevent the news websites from collecting data on their browsing history, thereby enhancing their privacy.
How the Anti-Tracking Tool Works
The anti-tracking tool in IE9 works by blocking third-party content that is known to track user behavior. When a user visits a website, the browser checks the Tracking List to see if any of the third-party content on the page is on the list. If it is, the browser will block that content from loading, thereby preventing the third party from tracking the user’s activity.
This feature is not enabled by default, meaning users will need to opt in to activate it. This approach ensures that users are aware of the feature and can make an informed decision about whether or not to use it. Once enabled, users can easily manage their Tracking Lists through the browser’s settings, adding or removing websites as they see fit.
Moreover, the anti-tracking tool is designed to be user-friendly. Even those who are not tech-savvy can easily navigate the settings and customize their Tracking Lists. This ease of use is crucial for widespread adoption, as it ensures that all users, regardless of their technical expertise, can benefit from enhanced privacy protections.
You can find out more information about how the anti-tracking tool will work over at the .
via BBC
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