DuckDuckGo Can Block Third-Party Trackers from Mobile Apps

The feature, currently in beta and open to the public, will show how many trackers it's removed and which apps it has blocked.

Companies that collect data could consider a different route since DuckDuckGo has introduced a new feature that blocks third-party trackers within the apps that you install on your smartphone, even if you're not using them.

When you consider the fact that trust in the technology industry is at a record low due to shady data harvesting practices, it's the safe claim that this type of feature is a necessity specifically in a browser that prioritizes security and privacy first overall else.

DuckDuckGo has already kept advertisements and customized results from being displayed However, you'll now be able to ensure that your data is secure because of this feature.

DuckDuckGo Launches App Tracking Security Beta

DuckDuckGo has announced the new feature in a Spread Privacy blog article that explains the specifics of how the new feature functions and how it will protect you and your information from being tracked. According to the blog post, the feature is quite simple to use

"Just activate your App Tracking Protection, and we'll block all hidden trackers we're able to identify as able to block across your apps."

 

If you're an iPhone user the feature will be somewhat familiar. It's the same thing as Apple's App tracking Transparency feature works in the same way however, it will ask you whether you'd prefer to be tracked, rather than just blocked by default. However it's a good idea, and with that, the majority of iPhone users choosing not to be monitored It's safe to claim that DuckDuckGo could be on to something that will benefit Android users.

Alongside blocking trackers from the apps you use on your smartphone, you'll have a complete dashboard view of the number of trackers that were blocked as well as which websites they were originating from. It's possible to find out what type of data they're trying to track, such as age or location.

Do I Need App Tracking Protection?

If you're an iPhone user, you do not require this feature since you already have similar features that are installed on your phone. If, however, are an Android user and aren't using a blocking device for tracking the feature may be a game changer, especially in the event that you don't wish to be monitored.

"The typical Android user has 35 applications installed on their phones. In our tests we've discovered that phones that have 35 apps will experience 1,000 and 2,000 tracking attempts per day. They also contact 70+ diverse tracking organizations."

 

That's a lot of attempts to track! Luckily, this feature, as well as others similar to it will be able to manage the majority of the app tracking needs and you'll be able to put it out of your mind.

It is never a bad idea to have additional security when browsing the internet. Tools such as the password manager as well as VPNscan can really help ensure your data is secure regardless of device, safeguarding your information and encryption your internet traffic to ensure that even the most sophisticated of hackers are out.