AliExpress tracks users via inaudible audio fingerprinting
cross-posted from: https://scribe.disroot.org/post/10925160
If you shop on AliExpress and your Bluetooth headphones stop switching between devices, this is caused by hidden tracking scripts on the site, not broken hardware. Install uBlock Origin and add filter rules to block
collina.jsandfireyejs.json aliexpress.com, then close all open AliExpress tabs and reload the site for the fix to take effect....
AliExpress users report a privacy-invasive tracking mechanism on the company's homepage that interferes with Bluetooth hardware. The site runs hidden audio processes that prevent multipoint headphones from switching between devices. This behavior occurs even when the tab is idle and no media is visible to the user. The issue is caused by Alibaba's security scripts designed for device identification and anti-fraud detection.
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https://beyondmachines.net/event_details/aliexpress-silent-webaudio-fingerprinting-uses-bluetooth-hardware-9-o-c-m-i/gD2P6Ple2LOpen linkView original on scribe.disroot.org
4 replies
Repeat after me: adBlockers are self-defense.
Policy based filtering of traffic is basic information security.
Wait, I've noticed that at times the Bose app flashes it's presence by random when browsing the interwebs. I think this might be more wide spread.
I need to do all my shopping on my desktop going forward. No more commercial apps on my phone. I always ensure my desktop is off when I’m not using and it and it has no built in camera or mic. I’ll admit I’ve been lazy and enjoyed the convenience.