A tracker blocker is a tool that can discover and block internet trackers from following you around the web. Trackers — code snippets embedded into websites and apps, harvest data around user behavior, preferences and browsing history. This data is used by companies for targeted advertising, analysis, and even for unethical practices like reselling the data.
As such, many VPN providers also offer tracker blockers so that users don't get whitelisted and followed around the web by third parties, leading to a more secure and privacy-friendly internet experience.
How tracker blockers work
Tracker blockers, for example, work by blocking requests made by tracking scripts, preventing them from loading. They also do this in a few different ways:
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Blocking known trackers: Tracker blockers rely on databases of known tracking domains used to identify and prevent requests to these servers.
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Preventing cookies: Most trackers use cookies to track users. Tracker blockers can detect and prevent cookies from being installed.
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Ad and script blocking: Most ad blockers work alongside tracker blockers to block scripts that serve ads and track user behavior.
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Encrypting DNS requests: Some tracker blockers go a step further, encrypting DNS queries so trackers can’t bust which sites you’re visiting.
The advantages of using a tracker blockers
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Comprehensive online privacy: VPNs encrypt your internet traffic and tracker blockers keep additional layers of tracking at bay, providing a complete privacy solution.
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Secure browsing: Ad blockers protect against trackers embedded in malicious ads or compromised websites.
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Customization: Most tracker blockers also enable users to whitelist sites they trust while blocking trackers elsewhere.
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Enhanced security for mobile users: Tracker blockers are particularly useful for mobile, where apps frequently include secret trackers.
The disadvantages of using a tracker blockers
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Compatibility issues: Some websites may not function correctly if trackers are blocked, as they rely on trackers for legitimate purposes like session management or analytics.
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Overblocking: Tracker blockers can sometimes block features or content that users want to access.
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False Sense of Security: Tracker blockers add privacy, but they don’t eliminate the need for what you still need to do to be safe online, like using strong passwords or anti-malware software.
VPN services offering tracker blockers
- NordVPN (Strong privacy protection with military-grade encryption. It offers a large server network, allowing for fast and reliable connections, and is superb at unblocking streaming services. It has a few unique features such as strong security, fast speeds, and global coverage.).
- ExpressVPN (one of the most popular VPN services is ExpressVPN which has servers in over 100 countries globally. Quick, secure, trustworthy, anonymous.).
- PureVPN (PureVPN is a fairly successful VPN service at low prices).
Tracker blockers are an essential tool for anyone concerned about online privacy and security. By preventing tracking scripts from collecting data, they ensure that users can browse the internet without being constantly monitored. A tracker blocker and a VPN can help you take back control of your digital footprint.
