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What is Privacy Badger?
Privacy Badger is a free and open-source browser plugin that protects user privacy on the Internet by blocking invisible online trackers and adverts. It was launched by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) and is available for platforms including:
- Google Chrome
- Mozilla Firefox
- Microsoft Edge, and several others
Source: (1)
The Foundation of Privacy Badger
Privacy Badger was officially launched by the Electronic Frontier Foundation in 2014. It was founded as a strategic reaction to growing concerns about online tracking and the erosion of user privacy in the ever-changing field of digital security.
EFF developed Privacy Badger to provide users with a tool that not only defends them against the widespread tracking technologies used by advertisers but also encouraged a more user-centric and safer approach for online surfing and other experiences.
Privacy Badger was first started as a heuristic learning model, dynamically adjusting to stop new online trackers. However, in October 2020, in response to security revelations from the Google Security Team, Privacy Badger’s default behaviours changed.
Later, Privacy Badger changed from heuristic learning to blocking online trackers found through automated testing before release. This change was made to reduce potential security vulnerabilities and prevent third-party fingerprinting of users based on the trackers it blacklisted.
How Does Privacy Badger Work?
Privacy Badger works as a strong tracker-blocker, adopted with algorithmic ways to detect and prevent trackers that violate user privacy. It favours tracker blocking above ad blocking that works when a tracker, not an ad, attempts to follow a user online.
This specific focus serves a twofold purpose that protects both user’s privacy and pushes advertisers to adopt more privacy-conscious practices. Moreover, unlike traditional tracker blocker that relies on curated lists of sites or URLs, Privacy Badger works algorithmically.
It identifies tracking based on observable behaviour, freeing the user from subjectivity. This strategy coincides with the EFF’s commitment to user-centric tools and ensures that Privacy Badger adapts to evolving monitoring tactics dynamically.
Moreover, Privacy Badger’s operational technique comprises the attentive tracking of third-party domains that embed material such as images and JavaScript on visited web pages. It examines these domains and uniquely identifies cookies, local storage ‘supercookies’ and canvas fingerprinting.
So when Privacy Badger detects a third-party host engaging in cross-site tracking, it takes quick action, prompting the user’s browser to stop loading material from that particular source. Its effectiveness is enhanced by periodic learning upgrades from Badger Sett, EFF’s Badger training program.
These upgrades allow Privacy Badger to keep up with popular trackers on prominent websites, which contributed to its ability in automatic tracker blocking. To prevent invisible trackers, Privacy Badger also consists of click-to-activate placeholders for video players and comment widgets.
It also disables outgoing link click monitoring on major sites such as Facebook and Google and is working to integrate further privacy-enhancing features. Contrary to popular belief, Privacy Badger does not expressly target adverts; rather, it concentrates on blocking any visible or invisible "third party" scripts or pictures that engage in monitoring without user authorization.
Privacy Badger helps users enforce their privacy preferences by sending signals such as the Global Privacy Control and Do Not Track. Following these cues, Privacy Badger learns to block or restrict trackers that disrespect user preferences and privacy.
Download and Install Privacy Badger
Privacy Badger makes it easy to protect your online privacy. Downloading and installing Privacy Badger is simple whether you're using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Android, here’s how to do it:
- How to Download and Install Privacy Badger on Google Chrome:
- Go to the Chrome Web Store.
- Look for "Privacy Badger."
- Click "Add to Chrome."
Click here to download!
- How to Download and Install Privacy Badger on Mozilla Firefox:
- Go to Mozilla Add-ons.
- Look for "Privacy Badger."
- Click "Add to Firefox" and complete the installation instructions.
Click here to install!
- How to Download and Install Privacy Badger on Microsoft Edge:
- Navigate to the Microsoft Edge Add-ons shop.
- Look for "Privacy Badger."
- Click "Get."
Click here to download and install!
- How to Download and Install Privacy Badger on Android:
- Go to the Google Play Store.
- Look for "Privacy Badger."
- After installation, tap "Install" and launch the program.
Click here to get it!
By embedding Privacy Badger into your preferred browser or mobile device, you take an important step toward reinforcing your digital defences against intrusive trackers and protecting your online privacy. Be smart and work efficiently.
Privacy Badger: The Future of Online Security
Privacy Badger emerges as an online privacy defender, providing people with a powerful tool for reclaiming control over their digital experiences. Its progression from heuristic learning to algorithmic precision demonstrates a dedication to security and user-centeredness.
Understanding how Privacy Badger works and incorporating it into your surfing habit not only protects you from nosy trackers but also contributes to the bigger narrative of developing a privacy-respecting online ecosystem.
As the digital world evolves, Privacy Badger exemplifies the continued efforts to empower people in their pursuit of a secure and private online experience.
