Apple will soon treat online web tracking the same as a security vulnerability (thenextweb.com)

Article summary

Apple has introduced a new anti-tracking policy in Safari, which will treat online web tracking as a security vulnerability. The policy aims to prevent all forms of covert tracking methods, and parties trying to circumvent it will be treated with the same seriousness as security vulnerabilities. This move is an extension of Apple's privacy-by-design paradigm, which started with Intelligent Tracking Protection (ITP) two years ago. The policy may have a significant impact on web publishing and advertising.

Main themes

• online privacy
• web tracking
• security vulnerabilities
• advertising
• Safari policy
• digital rights

What commenters say

• Apple's move to block tracking in Safari will have a significant impact on web publishing and advertising, potentially disrupting the business models of many online companies.
• The policy may not be effective in preventing tracking, as advertisers may find ways to circumvent it, such as using browser fingerprinting or other methods.
• Some users are concerned that Apple's motivation for prioritizing privacy is not entirely altruistic, but rather a way to differentiate themselves from competitors like Google.
• Others argue that Apple's focus on privacy is a positive development, as it may push other companies to follow suit and prioritize user privacy.
• There are concerns that the benefits of increased privacy will be unevenly distributed, with those who can afford Apple devices being better protected than those who cannot.
• The policy may lead to a cat-and-mouse game between Apple and advertisers, with each side trying to outmaneuver the other.
• Some commenters are skeptical of Apple's long-term commitment to privacy, given their past actions and the potential for future changes in their business model.