Ghostery-Private-Browsing
Ghostery-Private-Browsing is an extension for web browsers that focuses on enhancing user privacy by blocking trackers, ads, and providing insights into website behaviors. Here's a detailed look into its functionality, history, and context:
Overview
Ghostery-Private-Browsing works by identifying and blocking trackers from companies that track user activity across the internet. It offers users control over which trackers to block, allowing for a more private browsing experience. The extension is available for multiple browsers including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and others.
History
- Foundation: Ghostery was initially developed by a company named Evidon, Inc., which later rebranded to Ghostery. It was first released in 2010.
- Acquisition: In 2017, Cliqz, a German privacy-focused search engine and browser company, acquired Ghostery. The aim was to integrate Ghostery's technology into Cliqz's privacy-first ecosystem.
- Rebranding and Focus: After the acquisition, there was a shift towards enhancing user privacy with a stronger focus on open-source development and transparency. Ghostery became part of a broader movement towards user control and privacy on the web.
Features
- Tracker Blocking: Ghostery blocks a wide range of trackers, including social media trackers, analytics, and advertising networks.
- Privacy Settings: Users can customize which trackers are blocked or allowed, providing granular control over privacy.
- Insights: The extension provides detailed information about trackers on websites, including who's tracking and why.
- Anti-Tracking: Ghostery includes anti-tracking measures to prevent tracking companies from reconstructing user profiles.
- Enhanced Private Browsing: While many browsers offer a private browsing mode, Ghostery enhances this by adding tracker blocking capabilities.
- Open Source: Ghostery has made significant parts of its code open source, allowing the community to audit and contribute to its development.
Controversies
There have been concerns regarding Ghostery's business model, particularly when it was under Evidon. Critics pointed out that Ghostery was collecting data about the trackers it was blocking, which could potentially be used for profit. However, post-acquisition by Cliqz and the shift towards a more privacy-centric approach, these concerns have been addressed by moving to a non-profit model and enhancing transparency.
Community and Development
Ghostery-Private-Browsing engages with its community through an open-source approach, encouraging contributions to its codebase on platforms like GitHub. This has fostered a community-driven development process, aligning with the broader ethos of privacy and user control over the internet.
Sources
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