A recent security audit has shown that DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser, known for its privacy focus, fails to block trackers from Microsoft on its iOS and Android apps.
During the audit, security researcher Zach Edwards discovered that while the app successfully blocked trackers from Google and Facebook, it allowed Microsoft trackers to function. This means that trackers on Bing and LinkedIn domains can collect user data like IP addresses and user agents, compromising user privacy.
Despite its features like a tracker blocker and cookie blocker, DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser doesn’t fully protect user privacy. The browser’s description claims to block hidden third-party trackers, but the omission of Microsoft’s trackers poses a risk to user privacy.
Why Does DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser Allow Microsoft Trackers?
DuckDuckGo has an agreement with Microsoft to display contextual ads in its search results sourced from Bing. This partnership appears to prevent DuckDuckGo from blocking Microsoft trackers, leading to the compromise of user privacy.
CEO Gabriel Weinberg clarified that while the search engine ensures user anonymity in search results and advertisements, it is bound by its agreement with Microsoft regarding tracker blocking.
Is DuckDuckGo.com Safe to Use?
Despite the issue with Microsoft trackers, DuckDuckGo itself remains safe for users according to Weinberg. Users are advised to use ad blockers like uBlock Origin or AdGuard for added privacy protection. The macOS version of the browser might also be affected, so caution is recommended.
Weinberg mentioned that DuckDuckGo is working with Microsoft to address the tracker blocking restriction and update app store descriptions for transparency.
The timing of this revelation is unfortunate for DuckDuckGo, as the search engine recently criticized Google’s privacy practices. While the company has taken a stand against Google’s tracking methods, it must also ensure its own privacy features are consistent.
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