Bridging the Privacy Gap: A Behavioural Analysis-Based Extension for Transparent Tracking Prevention

This paper introduced Privacy Shield, a browser extension designed to improve both privacy protection and user awareness. Unlike traditional tools that silently block trackers, Privacy Shield monitors multiple fingerprinting techniques—such as Canvas, WebGL, AudioContext, and hardware-based signals—and explains these detections in simple, understandable terms. Its three protection modes—Aggressive, Balanced, and Manual—demonstrate that strong privacy and usability can coexist. The built-in trust score further simplifies complex tracking data into a clear 0–100 scale, allowing users to quickly judge website safety. Testing results confirm that the system effectively detects advanced tracking methods with high accuracy while maintaining fast performance. A key contribution is the Insights Tab, which transforms technical events into meaningful explanations. This helps users understand how tracking works, making Privacy Shield not just a protection tool but also an educational platform. Combined with Manual Mode, it gives users both knowledge and control over their privacy. Future improvements may include using machine learning to detect new tracking methods, expanding support to mobile browsers, and developing a community-based trust system. Overall, Privacy Shield shows that effective privacy tools should both protect users and help them understand the risks they face.

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