Ghostery

Ghostery is a software that alerts the user when browsing to these hidden services that transmit in the background private data to our staff, and this blocked on request. The program is an add -on for the Firefox web browser, Safari, Chrome, Opera and Internet Explorer available as well as stand-alone web browser app for Apple iOS.

Operation

Unlike the popular Firefox extension NoScript Ghostery blocked hidden scripts do not categorically, but only informs the user of their existence. The user then has the option to block the script and / or to learn more about its author and Privacy Policy.

In addition, the user may agree to send ( opt-in ), information about the blocked scripts to the developer. The corresponding function is dubbed Ghost Rank.

When loading a new web page, the program displays in the upper right corner of the browser window to a list of active tracking programs. The list is opened by clicking on the Ghostery icon in the status bar and can be edited. It contains links to further information and offers guests the possibility to block unwanted sites.

Criticism

The German computer magazine Chip does not recommend use of the software. After chip Ghostery pretend only to protecting the user to prescribe before tracking. Chip comes to his judgment, as the manufacturer of Ghostery imagine simultaneously its database of advertisers available. Technology Review also reported that the company pass on behind Ghostery user data to advertising companies, when "Ghost Rank" is enabled.

According to the company Ghostery does not collect information that can be used to purposefully to advertise or identify Ghostery users. It would only collected data if the user consented to function Ghost Rank ( opt-in ) have. The data collected would be made ​​available to the organization Better Business Bureau available. Furthermore Ghostery deliver data to university students, to privacy, as well as researchers to journalists for their studies.

Reception

Ghostery was in the list of " recommended Firefox extensions " added by Mozilla.