Day #4, Data Detox
Today my #datadetox was a walk through data trackers and a set of #trackerbusters. I appreciate this Data Detox process because it allows me to try some new tools that would take me forever to find, figure out and assess on my own.
First I started with a set of EFF tools and tested my data privacy/web tracking protection on Chrome. Well, not so good:
I looked at this “fingerprint” thing too and truthfully, I don’t understand it. Will need to come back to learn more.
Then I installed Privacy Badger as EFF suggested, on both Chrome and FF. Then ran another test. Whoo hoo! (Again, still don’t get fingerprints, but anyway, it’s better).
The challenge for the day is to try a tool called AdNauseum which apparently clicks on Ads invisibly, therefore rendering my data results random and useless I anyone. I decided to install that on FF where I am doing my personal browsing now. And that will also let me see how it compares to browsing on Chrome without it.
Anyway it’s apparently not working on Chrome right now -- see:
Fascinating the things you learn about doing #datadetox!
Makes me go back to thinking about the alternative business models out there or that could be developed online that move us beyond this sole focus on advertising and behavior modification techniques; a focus which makes tools like this necessary. Also reminds me of the publication/movement called Adbusters.
