Evercookie
In contrast to standard cookies, which can be deleted through browser settings, Evercookie self-replicates by retrieving data from multiple storage methods. This ensures persistent user tracking, even when browsing history or cookies are cleared, highlighting the importance of privacy solutions like DICloak.
Understanding Evercookies: A Deep Dive into Persistent Tracking
Evercookie is a JavaScript-based tracking technique that leverages various client-side storage mechanisms to maintain persistent data. Initially created as a proof-of-concept, it illustrates the potential for resilient tracking cookies .
Key Characteristics of Evercookie
- Self-regenerating : If it is deleted from one location, it can restore itself from another.
- Challenging to eliminate : Utilizes multiple storage methods beyond conventional cookies.
- Cross-browser tracking : Capable of persisting across different browsers on the same device.
- Circumvents user privacy controls : Incognito or private browsing modes do not prevent its operation.
These attributes render Evercookie an effective instrument for advertisers, analytics companies, and even cyber attackers seeking to monitor users across various websites, devices, and sessions.
Understanding the Functionality of Evercookie
Evercookie utilizes various web storage technologies to maintain its persistence. When a user accesses a website that implements Evercookie, the tracking data is replicated across several storage locations , including:
1. Standard HTTP Cookies
This is the most fundamental form of storage, but it can be easily deleted by users.
2. Flash Cookies (Local Shared Objects – LSOs)
These are stored outside the standard browser storage and remain intact even when cookies are cleared.
3. HTML5 Storage
Employs LocalStorage and SessionStorage to keep tracking identifiers.
4. IndexedDB & Web SQL Databases
Stores unique identifiers in browser databases that persist across sessions.
5. ETags & Cache Headers
Utilizes browser caching mechanisms to recover tracking data even after it has been deleted.
6. WebRTC & HSTS Supercookies
Takes advantage of browser security features for ongoing tracking.
7. IP-Based & Device Fingerprinting
Integrates Evercookie with fingerprinting techniques to recognize users even after cookies have been removed.
Whenever a user deletes a cookie, Evercookie reconstructs itself by retrieving data from one of the remaining storage locations. This renders it nearly impossible to completely eliminate without the use of advanced privacy tools.
The Privacy Implications of Evercookie
Evercookie has raised significant privacy concerns due to its ability to enable persistent user tracking , even when users make efforts to delete their data.
1. Circumvents User Consent
When users remove cookies, Evercookie self-replicates , rendering privacy controls ineffective.
2. Cross-Session & Cross-Browser Tracking
Evercookie can monitor users across various browsers on the same device, making it more intrusive than standard cookies.
3. Resistant to Standard Removal Methods
Clearing browsing history, cookies, and even utilizing incognito mode does not completely eliminate Evercookie .
4. Compliance Issues
Numerous privacy regulations, including GDPR (Europe) and CCPA (California) , mandate user consent for tracking . The design of Evercookie complicates the opt-out process for users, leading to potential compliance challenges.
Effective Strategies for Detecting and Eliminating Evercookie
Since Evercookie distributes its tracking data across various storage locations, removing it necessitates a comprehensive strategy .
1. Utilize Privacy-Centric Browsers
Certain browsers, such as Brave and Firefox , offer integrated tracking protection against Evercookie.
2. Clear Various Storage Locations
Manually remove:
- Standard Cookies (Browser settings > Clear Cookies).
- Flash Cookies (Adobe Flash settings manager).
- HTML5 Storage (Developer Console > Application Storage).
- IndexedDB & Web SQL (Developer Tools > Storage).
- Cache & ETags (Clear browser cache and perform a hard reload).
3. Block Tracking Scripts
uBlock Origin, Privacy Badger, and NoScript can assist in preventing Evercookie from being established .
4. Disable WebRTC and HSTS Supercookies
Modify browser settings to block WebRTC leaks and mitigate HSTS tracking .
5. Employ Anti-Tracking Solutions
VPNs, private browsing modes, and anti-detect browsers can help minimize tracking exposure.
6. Factory Reset (Last Resort)
In severe cases, some tracking data may remain beyond browser settings, necessitating a complete system reset .
Essential Insights
Evercookie is among the most persistent and intrusive tracking technologies ever created. In contrast to conventional cookies, which can be easily removed, Evercookie rebuilds itself through various storage methods.
To defend against Evercookie tracking , users need to implement advanced strategies , such as clearing all types of storage, utilizing privacy-centric browsers, and disabling WebRTC tracking . As the emphasis on online privacy regulations intensifies, the presence of Evercookie raises significant ethical and legal concerns surrounding user tracking and consent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Evercookie differ from standard cookies?
Evercookie reconstitutes itself from various storage locations after being deleted, whereas standard cookies vanish entirely once cleared.
What makes Evercookie a privacy concern?
It circumvents typical user privacy measures, rendering it nearly impossible to eliminate completely without specialized tools.
Can Evercookie track users across different browsers?
Indeed, Evercookie can save data using Flash, HTML5, IndexedDB, and other techniques , facilitating cross-browser tracking.
Does incognito mode stop Evercookie tracking?
No, Evercookie remains active even during private browsing because it employs storage methods that extend beyond standard cookies.
How can I eliminate Evercookie from my device?
To remove Evercookie, you need to clear all types of storage, utilize anti-tracking extensions, and modify browser settings .
What is the most effective way to prevent Evercookie tracking?
Employing anti-tracking browsers, VPNs, and blocking JavaScript-based tracking scripts can significantly reduce its impact.