New tool shows how trackable your browser fingerprint is
Glassbox estimates how unique your browser fingerprint might be.
1What is Glassbox?
Glassbox is a new tool that shows users how unique their browser fingerprint is. It runs entirely in the browser and doesn't send data online. Unlike other tools, it displays raw data and provides an estimate of how identifiable your fingerprint might be. Developer David Dale notes this number is a model based on published signal entropy, not an actual measurement.
2How does it work?
The tool analyzes your browser data using 30 different probes. It evaluates factors like canvas, WebGL, font libraries, WASM features, API matrices, and cross-site login states. In tests, a Chrome window used for work showed 99% identifiability, while Tor Browser dropped to 56%. The tool was inspired by Alibaba's AliExpress site which uses silent sawtooth waves for audio-based fingerprinting.
3Which browsers are safer?
Tests showed Firefox and Tor Browser had lower identifiability rates compared to Chrome, Edge and Safari. Firefox users were estimated 89% identifiable, Tor users 56%. This means 1 in 681 million Firefox users share the same fingerprint, and 1 in 408 thousand Tor users. However, the developer emphasizes these are estimates that can't measure true rarity.
4Privacy recommendations
David Dale says the highest-impact move is using a browser that puts you in a large, identical crowd. He warns that heavily customized 'hardened' setups might actually make you more identifiable. Besides using VPN or Tor, he recommends closing WebRTC leaks. Glassbox also provides a page with online anonymization suggestions.
5Fingerprinting methods
Companies use various methods from invisible pixels to silent sound waves to identify browsers. Alibaba's AliExpress audio fingerprinting method is one example. Glassbox combines 30 different probes for comprehensive analysis. For instance, users with IPv6 appear more identifiable. The tool helps users understand what makes their browser stand out.
6Development process
David Dale decided to build his own tool rather than fork existing open-source solutions. As a solo entrepreneur and longtime security engineer, he found AI tools like Claude Code helpful for polishing ideas. His goal was to see all fingerprinting methods in one place, running against his own browser. The project reflects growing concerns about online tracking.
7Risks for users
Browser fingerprinting can lead to tracking and profiling of online activities. This data can be used for advertising or exploited by malicious actors. High identifiability rates in work browsers pose professional privacy risks. Tools like Glassbox help users become aware of these risks. The developer aims to educate users about digital fingerprinting techniques.
8Why it matters
As online tracking methods proliferate, user privacy becomes increasingly important. Tools like Glassbox help users understand their trackability and take precautions. Developer Dale's message is clear: 'Blending in beats standing out.' This tool serves as a valuable resource for raising digital privacy awareness in an era of sophisticated tracking technologies.