user tracking Archives

Winsage

April 2, 2025

6 reasons why I think Microsoft should keep the ‘local account’ option in Windows 11

Microsoft has updated Windows 11 to make it more difficult for users to bypass internet and Microsoft account requirements during installation, specifically in builds 26120.3653 and 26200.5516. The "BypassNRO.cmd" script, which allowed the creation of local accounts without an internet connection, has been removed. Local accounts provide enhanced privacy by storing data locally, simplify the setup process without needing an internet connection, and allow unrestricted access to systems in offline environments. Users can choose meaningful folder names with local accounts, and they facilitate smoother Remote Desktop connections compared to Microsoft accounts. Although local accounts can still be created post-installation, there are concerns about their availability in future updates, especially for the Home edition.

AppWizard

March 31, 2025

Signal vs. WhatsApp — what’s the difference between these messaging apps?

Signal and WhatsApp both offer end-to-end encryption but differ significantly in ownership and data practices. WhatsApp is owned by Meta, which collects metadata about user interactions, while Signal is a nonprofit that collects minimal metadata and prioritizes user privacy. WhatsApp has a more user-friendly interface with features like chat history backups, group video calls, and business tools, whereas Signal focuses on privacy with features like "Sealed Sender" to hide sender identity and options to blur faces in photos. Users prioritizing privacy may prefer Signal, but practicality depends on their contacts' app usage. Users can choose to use both apps for different types of communication.

AppWizard

March 6, 2025

Google Silently Tracks Android Device Even No Apps Opened by User

Recent research by Professor D.J. Leith from Trinity College Dublin reveals that Google collects significant amounts of user data on Android devices, even when users do not engage with Google applications. The study shows that pre-installed Google apps can track users without consent or opt-out options. Measurements were taken using a Google Pixel 7 with Android 14. Findings indicate that Google servers store multiple tracking identifiers immediately after a factory reset, before any user interaction. Collected identifiers include advertising analytics cookies and persistent device identifiers. This data collection raises concerns about compliance with EU data privacy regulations, such as the e-Privacy Directive and GDPR. Specific tracking technologies identified include the Google Android ID, DSID cookies, and NID cookies. User interaction data is also transmitted to Firebase Analytics servers. Users have limited control over the data stored on their devices, with disabling Google Play Services or the Google Play Store being impractical options.