2020/01/07 by Nasser Mohammed Al-Fannah, Chris J. Mitchell · 1 citation
Computer Science · Social Sciences · #Internet Traffic Analysis and Secure E-voting #Privacy, Security, and Data Protection #Advanced Malware Detection Techniques
paper · doi:10.1108/jic-04-2019-0067
openalex publication_date 2020/01/07 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/26
Purpose Browser fingerprinting is increasingly being used for online tracking of users, and, unlike the use of cookies, is almost impossible for users to control. This has a major negative impact on online privacy. Despite the availability of a range of fingerprinting countermeasures as well as some limited attempts by browser vendors to curb its effectiveness, it remains largely uncontrolled. The paper aims to discuss this issue. Design/methodology/approach This paper provides the first comprehensive and structured discussion of measures to limit or control browser fingerprinting, covering both user-based and browser-based techniques. Findings This study discusses the limitations of counter browser fingerprinting measures and the need for browser vendor support in controlling fingerprinting. Further, a somewhat counterintuitive possible new browser identifier is proposed which could make cookies and fingerprint-based tracking redundant; the need for, and possible effect of, this feature is discussed. Originality/value This study provides the first comprehensive and structured discussion of measures to limit or control browser fingerprinting. Also, it proposes a new browser identifier that could make cookies and fingerprint-based tracking redundant.