DuckDuckGo Launches An Extension That Blocks Google's New Tracking System - Android

DuckDuckGo, a privacy-focused search engine, has launched an extension feature that allows users to block Google’s FLoC (Google’s new tracking system) for Chrome users. Google has recently added a new tracking system to Chrome called Federated Learning of Cohorts (FLoC). Google will use FLoC to show more targeted ads to users. This system is activated [...]

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The post DuckDuckGo Launches An Extension That Blocks Google's New Tracking System appeared first on Android Headlines.

DuckDuckGo, a privacy-focused search engine, has launched an extension feature that allows users to block Google’s FLoC (Google’s new tracking system) for Chrome users.

Google has recently added a new tracking system to Chrome called Federated Learning of Cohorts (FLoC). Google will use FLoC to show more targeted ads to users. This system is activated by default and comes as a replacement for traditional cookies.

Of course, cookies are not going anywhere any time soon, and they will remain until at least 2023. It means Google is using FLoC and cookies simultaneously.

In a blog post, DuckDuckGo expressed its concerns about Google’s new tracking system, as it is activated by default, and many users aren’t aware of it. But if you want to deactivate FLoC, there are some ways for you.

First, DuckDuckGo asks you to stop using Google Chrome and download other browsers. The FLoC is available on Chrome only, and other browsers don’t have it. So for those who value their privacy, it’s good to look for alternatives.

Second, DuckDuckGo has released an extension feature that blocks interactions between websites and FLoC. This way, Google can’t gather any browsing information from users. The FLoC blocker is available in version 2021.4.8 and later versions of the DuckDuckGo extension. You can download this extension from the Chrome web store or the DuckDuckGo website for other browsers.

The last method DuckDuckGo offers is to change Chrome or Google settings. This is better for those who can’t ditch Chrome and want to continue using it. DuckDuckGo suggests you stop syncing history data with Chrome or create a sync passphrase. Another thing is to disable “Web & App Activity” in Google Activity Controls or uncheck the “Include Chrome history and activity from sites, apps, and devices that use Google services.”

The last method is to go to the Ad Personalization page and disable “Ad personalization” or uncheck “Also, use your activity & information from Google services to personalize ads on websites and apps that partner with Google to show ads.”

Why can FLoC be a threat to privacy?

Google claims that FLoC is good for enhancing privacy, but experts have other opinions. FLoC can categorize users based on their search history and put them in groups. This way, Google can identify your search habits, and you will be shown related ads from now on.

DuckDuckGo describes this as “walking into a store where they already know all about you,” Of course, FLoC won’t stop individuals from tracking users, and you are still under surveillance.

The post DuckDuckGo Launches An Extension That Blocks Google's New Tracking System appeared first on Android Headlines.