Tuesday, 25 August 2026 MUMBAI EDITION LIVE

AliExpress Uses Audio Fingerprint Trick

AliExpress tracks visitors with inaudible audio signals. Browsers now have protections.

Mumbai Alert · City Desk
Mumbai Alert · City Desk
City Desk · Mumbai Alert News · Tue, 25 August 2026 at 08:01 pm
AliExpress Uses Audio Fingerprint Trick

AliExpress, a Chinese online retailer, has been found using a unique method to track its visitors. The company employs an 'audio fingerprint' technique, which analyzes inaudible audio signals processed by web browsers. This method was discovered by researcher Matthew Callaghan, who noticed that the audio on his phone stopped playing when he visited the AliExpress website.

The audio fingerprinting technique works by generating an inaudible audio signal that is processed by the web browser. This signal can be used to identify and track individual visitors, even if they have disabled cookies or other tracking methods. AliExpress is using this technique in addition to other tracking methods, such as cookies and browser fingerprinting.

Callaghan's discovery has led to Firefox and Chrome browsers implementing protections against this specific audio fingerprinting method. These protections will help to prevent AliExpress and other websites from using this technique to track visitors without their consent.

The use of audio fingerprinting by AliExpress raises concerns about online privacy and the methods that companies are using to track their visitors. Many websites use tracking methods to collect data about their visitors, but the use of inaudible audio signals is a particularly invasive technique.

AliExpress is a popular online retailer that offers a wide range of products at discounted prices. The company is owned by the Chinese conglomerate Alibaba Group and has become a major player in the e-commerce market. However, the company's use of audio fingerprinting has raised questions about its commitment to protecting the privacy of its visitors.

The discovery of AliExpress's use of audio fingerprinting is a reminder that online privacy is a major concern for many internet users. As companies continue to develop new methods for tracking and collecting data about their visitors, it is essential that browsers and other online platforms take steps to protect users' privacy.

In response to the discovery, Firefox and Chrome have taken steps to protect their users from audio fingerprinting. These protections will help to prevent companies like AliExpress from using this technique to track visitors without their consent. However, it is likely that other companies will continue to develop new methods for tracking and collecting data about their visitors, and it is essential that online platforms continue to evolve to protect users' privacy.

The use of audio fingerprinting by AliExpress is a significant concern for online privacy, and it highlights the need for greater transparency and regulation of tracking methods. As the online retail market continues to grow, it is essential that companies prioritize the privacy and security of their visitors.

In conclusion, the discovery of AliExpress's use of audio fingerprinting is a reminder that online privacy is a major concern for many internet users. The use of inaudible audio signals to track visitors is a particularly invasive technique, and it highlights the need for greater transparency and regulation of tracking methods. As online platforms continue to evolve, it is essential that they prioritize the privacy and security of their users.

Frequently asked questions

What is audio fingerprinting?

Audio fingerprinting is a technique that analyzes inaudible audio signals processed by web browsers to track visitors.

How does AliExpress use audio fingerprinting?

AliExpress uses audio fingerprinting in addition to other tracking methods, such as cookies and browser fingerprinting, to collect data about its visitors.

aliexpressaudio fingerprintingonline privacyfirefoxchrome
X Facebook Telegram
Read the original report ↗

More in News

all

UP RERA Extends Project Deadlines 4 Months

UP RERA offers relief to projects affected by Middle East disruptions. Deadline extended to October 2026.

By Mumbai Alert · City Desk · 49 min ago

all

NASA Launches $4 Billion Roman Telescope

NASA's new telescope to map 2 billion galaxies, explore dark energy and exoplanets.

By Mumbai Alert · City Desk · 52 min ago

all

Gayatri Pariwar Sends 10 Lakh Resolution Cards Globally

Raksha Bandhan campaign promotes women's safety, de-addiction and environment.

By Mumbai Alert · City Desk · 1 hr ago

all

New Jersey Cabin Transformed into 5,000sqft Artwork

Artist turns small cabin into large artwork, teaches local artists.

By Mumbai Alert · City Desk · 1 hr ago