Apple released iOS 26 on September 15, bringing significant improvements to your iPhone’s privacy features. Among these changes are enhanced measures against digital fingerprinting, a critical update that aims to protect user data more effectively than ever.
Digital fingerprinting allows advertisers and corporations to create detailed user profiles for targeted ads and potentially engage in price discrimination based on perceived demographics. Beyond commercial misuse, this technology poses risks such as government surveillance and identity theft.
According to cyber experts, these profiling tactics threaten your personal information, prompting Apple to respond with crucial updates in iOS 26. If you’ve updated your device, you can take advantage of new privacy protections to safeguard your data trail. Here’s how.
Note: Your digital fingerprint is separate from biometric features like Touch ID or Face ID.
Where to Find Advanced Tracking and Fingerprinting Protections
1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Apps at the bottom of the menu.
3. Tap Safari.
4. Tap Advanced near the bottom.
5. Tap Advanced Tracking and Fingerprinting Protection.
6. Select All Browsing.
Apple has implemented Advanced Fingerprinting Protection, previously available only in Private Browsing mode, across all browsing in Safari. This feature obfuscates browser and device data used to create a digital fingerprint, enhancing your privacy while surfing the internet.
However, it’s worth noting that this protection is exclusive to Safari. Users of alternative browsers may not benefit from these privacy upgrades. Additionally, while blocking fingerprinting can enhance privacy, it may also disrupt personalized settings on certain websites, potentially diminishing user experience.
Why Are These Protections Important Now?
The landscape of digital privacy is continually evolving. Google’s policy changes regarding digital fingerprinting in December 2024 reflect this shift. They cited the need for updated privacy solutions to meet user expectations and adapt to new ad-supported devices and platforms.
Despite these advances, the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office expressed concerns, labeling Google’s changes “irresponsible” and stating that they could diminish user control over personal data.
In light of these developments, enhancing your iPhone’s privacy settings has never been more relevant. Understanding the implications of digital fingerprinting can help you make informed choices about your online presence.
Other Ways to Combat Digital Fingerprinting
While using a VPN can mask your IP address, it’s not a silver bullet against digital fingerprinting. Experts suggest a multifaceted approach that includes utilizing privacy-focused browsers like the one provided by Mullvad or extensions such as Privacy Badger from the Electronic Frontier Foundation in tandem with a VPN.
Although these tools won’t completely prevent companies from collecting your digital fingerprint, data removal services are options for cleaning existing data from online presences. Using various strategies can help further secure your digital footprint as you navigate the web.
For more insights on iOS 26, you can explore features like reducing Liquid Glass effects and activating call and text screening on your iPhone. Our comprehensive iPhone cheat sheet also provides valuable tips and tricks to make the most of your device.