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Just like your fingerprints leave a distinct impression in the palm of your hand, your web browser also leaves its mark on the internet. The javascript web fingerprinting allows website operators to identify visitors based on various characteristics of their browser and operating system. It allows them to distinguish between legitimate and potential fraudsters without relying on easily concealed identifiers such as cookies and IP addresses.

The most common fingerprinting technique involves rendering an image or text on a hidden canvas element and measuring how it differs from one device to the next. The subtle differences, resulting from graphics hardware, installed fonts, and anti-aliasing settings, help to create a unique fingerprint for each device. Other fingerprinting techniques include the detection of installed plugins and screen resolution, which allow websites to track the user’s device more accurately.

JavaScript Web Fingerprinting: How It Works and Why It Matters

Fingerprinting is used to verify the identity of users and protect their data from fraudulent activities, as well as to provide more personalized content and features. For example, fingerprinting can be used to authenticate users when submitting an account form or logging in to a site. It can also be used to confirm a person’s identity during online transactions by matching the fingerprint with existing records.

The fingerprinting process is hidden from the user and, unlike cookies, it can’t be prevented or blocked. While some privacy-enhancing tools can help to reduce the impact of javascript web fingerprinting, it is still a significant threat that is difficult to eliminate completely.

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