Don’t use the in-app browser for things that matter

Both Apple and Google are doing great work to prevent multisite tracking. Google Chrome is slow Cookie phase-outand Apple goes further by asking users to block multi-app/multi-site tracking. App transparency pop up.

Custom in-app browser out of their reach,. Such a browser is Annoying by default, like themNo default browser history, username, password or sharing options. but wThey are most commonly found in apps like Facebook and Instagram, but are not limited to the two big Meta apps.

Since app developers themselves code the in-app browser, they have more freedom in what happens there. Recent research by Fastlane developers Felix Krause Indicated Facebook and Instagram can basically track anything you want while using the in-app browser and it is used to open all ads and links by default.

how in-app eyebrowser tracking work?

JavaScript injection. This research uses Instagram as an example. Instagram inserts Meta’s Meta Pixel JavaScript tracking code into every website you open.this is Libraries designed for website developers Track site visitors. Meta is injecting it into every site and collecting data without asking the website.

When you open a link on Instagram, the app inserts a JavaScript code (meta pixel) that helps the app to display and record all sorts of things. It can record what you tap, what images you open, how much time you spend on a page, and more. Instagram uses this information to serve more ads and build a clearer image. Identity.

Technically, in-app browsers can even record personal information such as passwords and credit card information as you enter it into text fields.out Research does not show that meta does anything that Heinous. MeHowever, it is important to be careful. A random app with its own built-in web browser has functionality.

What you can do about in-app browser tracking?

First, whenever you open a link on Instagram, Facebook, or any other app with an in-app browser, get out of thereThe app already recorded that you opened the link, and there’s not much you can do about it. bYou can stop tracking there. Instagram has an option to open the website in your default browser hidden behind a menu button.

Another option is to stop using the app itself. If you switch to the web app version, you won’t have to deal with this issue.if we talk about instagramwhich actually makes for a more comfortable, soothing, reel-free experience.

it’s about all you can do. For website developers, Felix proposes a set of codes to trick his Instagram into thinking their code is already installed on the site. He also offers suggestions on what Apple can do to prevent this kind of abuse in the future. If you’re curious how he figured it all out (it’s a great read), here it is. Felix Krause/9to5Mac.