The system needs to set up a local VPN connection to monitor all network traffic on the device, which is required for identifying the trackers.ĭuckDuckGo addresses concerns about this functional requirement, reassuring users that no data is sent to DuckDuckGo or any remote servers of other companies. How Tracker Blocking WorksĭuckDuckGo has compiled a list with all known trackers, which is constantly expanded with new entries.Īpp Tracking Protection uses this list to detect and block trackers, stopping the data collection for all apps except those the user has expressly excluded.

Recently filed lawsuits against Apple alleged inadequacy of its App Tracking Transparency system, claiming that some apps continue to collect sensitive data even when those users declined to give consent for tracking. These trackers collect data points like location, phone numbers, screen resolution, device make and model, internet provider, language, and others that, when combined, can lead to persistent tracking or even de-anonymization. The purpose of this tracking is to collect enough information about the user’s interests and help deliver targeted ads for better engagement and conversion rates. And the more data the better. Activating App Tracking Protection through the app’s SettingsĭuckDuckGo says that, on average, Android devices with 35 installed apps experience between 1,000-2,000 tracking events daily, with the data going to over 70 marketing companies. This includes trackers loaded from apps currently in use (foreground) and those that run in the background and monitor activity to siphon personal data while the user switches between apps.Īpp Tracking Protection is being rolled out in the latest version (5.143.1) of the DuckDuckGo browser app and can be activated through the Settings menu. DuckDuckGo has opened up the beta for App Tracking Protection, giving all Android users a tool capable of detecting and blocking most third-party trackers that run in the background.

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