Do_not_track (donottrack.sh)

Article summary

The article proposes a standard environment variable, DO_NOT_TRACK, to allow users to opt out of telemetry data collection in software. This variable would be a single, universal way for users to express their wish to opt out of tracking, usage reporting, and other non-essential data collection. The proposal suggests that software authors check for this variable and respect users' wishes to opt out. The goal is to provide a simple and consistent way for users to control their data collection.

Main themes

• Telemetry data collection
• User privacy
• Standardization
• Opt-out mechanisms
• Software development ethics

What commenters say

• Implementing a standard opt-out mechanism like DO_NOT_TRACK is a good step towards respecting user privacy, but its effectiveness depends on widespread adoption by software developers.
• Some argue that default opt-in tracking should be illegal and that companies should prioritize user privacy and data minimization.
• Others believe that anonymized usage data and crash reports can be useful for improving software quality, but users should have explicit control over what data is collected and shared.
• The proposal may not be effective in stopping all telemetry data collection, as some companies may not respect the DO_NOT_TRACK variable or find ways to circumvent it.
• A unified opt-out mechanism could lead to a situation where users have to manage multiple opt-out methods, including the new standard, which could be cumbersome.
• Some commenters suggest that using tools like Little Snitch or running one's own DNS can be effective ways to block unwanted telemetry data collection.
• There is a concern that even anonymized data can be used for surveillance or other purposes, and that users should be cautious about what data they share, even if it seems harmless.