Web Browser Tracking via Cache File Fingerprinting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional web tracking methods relying on cookies are hindered by increasingly strict browser policies, leading to ineffective tracking of web browsing activity.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that uses web cache files with embedded fingerprints to uniquely identify client devices, allowing for individualized and anonymous tracking of web browsing activity, even when cookies are blocked.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cookie-based tracking is used to identify client devices, then tracking precision is improved, but browser compatibility deteriorates due to strict cookie policies and blocking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a fingerprint copy of the client device's browser configuration and cache characteristics. Instead of relying on cookies that may be blocked, the system generates a unique identifier by analyzing and copying the device's existing browser properties, such as cache file structures, user agent strings, and configuration settings. This copied fingerprint serves as a persistent identifier that works across all browsers without requiring cookie acceptance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cookie-based tracking system with an alternative identification mechanism. Instead of using HTTP cookies that are subject to browser policies and user control, the system substitutes a fingerprinting approach that analyzes browser cache files and configuration data. This substitution eliminates dependency on cookie mechanisms while achieving the same tracking objective through a different technical approach.
2Loss of information
If cookies are used for tracking, then individualized tracking is achieved, but tracking reliability deteriorates due to cookie deletion and blocking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of the client device's browser configuration and cache structure to create a persistent fingerprint before any tracking occurs. By预先 analyzing and capturing the device's unique characteristics, the system establishes an identifier that persists across sessions without relying on cookies that may be deleted. This preliminary fingerprinting action ensures tracking continuity even when cookies are blocked or removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a fingerprint identifier as an intermediary between the tracking system and the client device. Instead of directly using cookies that are vulnerable to blocking and deletion, the system creates an intermediate representation of the device's browser characteristics. This intermediary fingerprint serves as a stable identifier that bridges the gap between the tracker and the tracked device, maintaining reliability without depending on cookie persistence.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If cache files with fingerprints are used instead of cookies, then tracking persistence is improved, but device complexity increases due to cache analysis requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the fingerprinting system universal by designing it to work with existing browser cache structures without requiring modifications to the browser or additional user software. The system leverages the universal presence of cache files in all web browsers to create persistent identifiers. This multi-functional approach allows the same fingerprinting mechanism to work across different browsers and devices, reducing the need for device-specific implementations and lowering overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service fingerprinting by having the tracking system automatically analyze and extract identifying characteristics from the client device's own cache files without requiring external assistance or complex processing. The browser's existing cache structure serves itself as the source of the fingerprint, eliminating the need for additional tracking software or user configuration. This self-service approach simplifies the system by using readily available data rather than requiring complex data collection mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
A technique for tracking web browsing activity of a client device that includes storing, in a memory, a client profile having a client identifier associated therewith, providing a client device with a cache file having the client identifier embedded therein, receiving from the client device an identification of a client action and the client identifier, and updating the client profile to include the identification of the client action.