Is there a program 'mask' a computer's specifications when online?


  1. Posts : 8
    Win 10 Pro
       #1

    Is there a program 'mask' a computer's specifications when online?


    I understand, that even with a VPN, which obviously can mask your location and IP address, it possible to be tracked online and create a profile of sorts, from the information from your PC.
    I know that some of the "markers" that can be traced include, monitor size, operating system, browser used, browser extensions, cookies. With enough info, the info can be used to create a unique profile.

    eg: Cover Your Tracks

    So, is there such a program / app where that sort of info can be masked, or randomised, so that when online, that sort of info can't be tracked or gathered easily or consistently? And on that note, would anyone have a list what sort of information can be tracked? (eg, PC Brand and model, User name, PC name, serial numbers etc...)

    Thanks!
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 5,043
    several
       #2

    It is difficult to avoid surveillance, which is set to increase:
    https://blogs.microsoft.com/on-the-i...pa-origin-cai/
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 7,597
    22H2 64 Bit Pro
       #3

    There is Trace. I use premium. However the more you configure it to block or randomise then the more likely that some websites will break. Sites can be whitelisted.

    Trace blocks multiple tracking techniques in Firefox and Chrome - gHacks Tech News

    Before Trace there was Dephormation. Currently not working except with old versions of Firefox or variants of it like Basilisk.

    Secret Agent - Randomize HTTP User Agent for Firefox/SeaMonkey
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 8
    Win 10 Pro
    Thread Starter
       #4

    Callender said:
    There is Trace. I use premium. However the more you configure it to block or randomise then the more likely that some websites will break. Sites can be whitelisted.

    Trace blocks multiple tracking techniques in Firefox and Chrome - gHacks Tech News

    Before Trace there was Dephormation. Currently not working except with old versions of Firefox or variants of it like Basilisk.

    Secret Agent - Randomize HTTP User Agent for Firefox/SeaMonkey




    Thanks for this, they both look useful. hile on Firefox extension page Trace, also saw Chameleon Extension:

    Chameleon – Get this Extension for 🦊 Firefox (en-US)

    One of the things I realised after posting is that the info can't be just blocked, there needs to be a substitution of data. Blocking info (ie no info at all) would also be a fingerprint in it's own right.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 7,597
    22H2 64 Bit Pro
       #5

    The thing is - using Trace a fingerprint is produced but it changes every visit depending upon how you configure it so if you test against one of these browser fingerprinting sites you will likely see a message that your fingerprint is unique. That doesn't matter because next visit a different fingerprint will be detected. Therefore you are not tracked for subsequent visits (new fingerprint cannot be linked to earlier visits).

    Hope that makes sense.

    Also available for other browsers.

    Trace - Online Tracking Protection
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 8
    Win 10 Pro
    Thread Starter
       #6

    Makes complete sense, thanks!
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 7,597
    22H2 64 Bit Pro
       #7
      My Computer


 

  Related Discussions
Our Sites
Site Links
About Us
Windows 10 Forums is an independent web site and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Microsoft Corporation. "Windows 10" and related materials are trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

© Designer Media Ltd
All times are GMT -5. The time now is 12:06.
Find Us




Windows 10 Forums