In today’s digital landscape, most discussions on anonymity revolve around common tools like TOR, VPNs, and encrypted OS systems. However, a far less-discussed but highly effective deanonymization method exists: Cross-Device Tracking (CDT). This method allows attackers to track users across multiple devices through high-frequency, often inaudible, sound signals.
How Does CDT Work?
Imagine you open a website on your smartphone, which plays an inaudible sound. Nearby devices, such as a laptop, pick up this signal via their microphones, linking both devices. This subtle process can track your activity across phones, tablets, and even smart TVs, without needing advanced hacking tools. CDT thrives in environments where several connected devices are used, from public spaces to home networks.
The troubling aspect of CDT is its capacity to deanonymize users even when traditional privacy measures are in place. Whether you’re using TOR or open-source software, sound emitted from one device can be picked up by others, contributing to a network of data collection. Marketing companies initially developed this technique to personalize advertisements, but it’s now suspected that hackers and intelligence agencies leverage CDT for malicious purposes.
The Silent Deanonymizer: Ultrasound
CDT often employs ultrasound, a frequency inaudible to the human ear, to communicate between devices. Your phone might seem quiet, but it’s still emitting signals that nearby devices, including those you don’t own, can capture. This information is then transmitted to servers, enabling third parties to track your location, activity, and identity.
One of the most alarming aspects of CDT is that it can function even with certain sound settings disabled. On many Android and iOS devices, turning off sound or switching to vibration mode won’t stop the transmission of these high-frequency signals.
Devices at Risk
This technique affects a broad range of devices, including:
- Smartphones
- Laptops
- Smart TVs
- Smartwatches
- Wireless headphones
- Home assistants (like Google Home or Amazon Echo)
How to Protect Yourself
While it may seem impossible to avoid CDT, there are ways to mitigate its effects:
- Distance: Stay away from other devices when browsing.
- Disabling Microphones and Speakers: Physically disable microphones and speakers on devices where possible.
- Use Wired Headphones: These reduce the chance of ultrasonic transmission.
- Avoid Crowded Areas: Public spaces often employ CDT for marketing purposes.
For the privacy-conscious, it’s important to stay informed about these under-the-radar tracking techniques and continuously evolve your defense strategies.
Conclusion
Cross-device tracking is a powerful tool that can undermine even the most robust privacy measures. As this method becomes more prevalent, staying aware of how data is shared across your devices is crucial for maintaining true anonymity online.
For more insights into advanced privacy strategies, check out Jhorj Privacy’s exclusive club, where lesser-known methods of online anonymity and security are explored.
Vladimir Rene
