What Is Browser Fingerprinting
Similar to a real human fingerprint, browser fingerprints have their distinct combination of attributes. Browser fingerprints are formed by analyzing the unique hardware and software configurations of web browsers and devices. This fingerprint is made up of multiple data points.
Together, these attributes form a highly unique and persistent identifier that can be used to identify returning users, as well as suspicious activity. For example, browser fingerprinting can be used to identify when users rely on VPNs, less common proxy browsers, or emulators, which are tools genuine users are unlikely to use.
How Browser Fingerprinting Works
The browser fingerprinting process typically relies on a Javascript code. This snippet gathers browser and device data to form a holistic user and device profile. Browser fingerprinting works in 3 steps:
- Attribute Collection - A javascript code gathers various browser and device attribute data when a user first visits a site. This data consists of data openly shared to complete a connection, like browser type, version, and installed operating system.
- Fingerprint Creation - These attributes form a unique identifier using specialized algorithms. This fingerprint does not change as long as the user connects from the same device, even if their cookies are cleared. Since every device configuration is distinct, it is highly unlikely for two devices to share the same fingerprint.
- Fingerprint Verification - In subsequent visits, the system compares the new fingerprint with the stored identifier. Any discrepancies may indicate suspicious behavior, helping the system flag risky devices.
What Data is Collected for Browser Fingerprinting
Here is a list of hardware and software attributes that are collected to create a browser fingerprint:
- IP address
- Browser name and version
- Browser installed extensions
- Browser privacy
- Browser language settings
- Cookie privacy settings
- Operating system version
- Operating system language
- User-agent string
- Keyboard layout
- Installed fonts
- Installed hardware
- Screen resolution
- HTTP header attributes
- Audio fingerprinting data
- HTML5 canvas fingerprinting data
- Sensor on the device (gyroscope & proximity)
- And more
The Benefits of Browser Fingerprinting in Fraud Detection
Browser fingerprinting empowers digital platforms to accurately identify users and detect suspicious activity that may indicate fraudulent intent. Key benefits include:
- Identifying Fraudsters - Browser fingerprinting helps to unveil suspicious user behavior. This includes any use of tools and techniques to mask real data and activity.
- Unique Device Identification - This creates a distinct profile (ID) for each device using multiple data points, making it nearly impossible for fraudsters to mask their identities.
- Adaptive Fraud Prevention - Certain browser fingerprinting solutions leverage AI and machine learning to continuously evolve, adapting to new fraud tactics in real time.
- Seamless integration - Browser fingerprinting solutions are typically no-code and can work alongside existing fraud prevention tools and strategies without disrupting user experience.
Industries Benefiting from Browser Fingerprinting
Virtually any digital platform can benefit from browser fingerprinting to enhance security. Browser fingerprinting can be especially valuable for industries such as:
For more specific details on how each industry can leverage browser fingerprinting, click the links above.
Fraud Tactics Stopped by Browser Fingerprinting
Browser fingerprinting can provide a powerful defense for digital platform owners, effectively addressing a wide range of fraud and threats including:
- Fake accounts - Identifies multiple accounts created by the same device.
- Account takeovers - Identifies login attempts from different devices or different locations.
- Referral & promo abuse - Identifies abuse of coupons and flash sale campaigns.
- Account sharing & subscription abuse - Detects when account sharing exceeds policy limits.
- Payment fraud - Prevents unauthorized payments made with stolen credentials.
- Incentive abuse & collusion - Identifies users tampering with the app or website to obtain financial incentives illicitly.
- Spam & user abuse - Prevents bad actors using automated tools to spread spam and hate messages.
- Identity fraud - Identifies devices accessing multiple accounts and protects against unauthorized access and withdrawals.
For digital businesses like yours, browser fingerprinting offers significant advantages. Unlike cookies, which can be deleted and manipulated, browser fingerprints are resilient to fraudsters’ attempts to conceal their activities, making them crucial for fraud prevention.
Not only can browser fingerprinting be used for fraud prevention, but it also helps businesses like yours gain deeper insights into your visitors. This allows you to deliver tailored and personal user experiences. For instance, if you know you’re dealing with a returning customer, you can push special discounts, bonuses, and perks to boost customer retention.
Still unsure if it’s the right fit for your platform? Schedule a demo to explore how our device intelligence solution can best bolster your platform’s security and effectively address fraud challenges.
Browser Fingerprinting, The SHIELD Way
Powered by SHIELD AI, our Device Intelligence solution takes browser fingerprinting to the next level, combining it with actionable fraud intelligence to deliver a powerful first line of defense against online fraud.
At the core of our solution is the SHIELD Device ID—the global standard for device identification. With over 99.99% accuracy, it pinpoints the physical devices behind fraudulent activity, exposing the tools and techniques fraudsters rely on. By cutting through spoofing attempts and uncovering hidden threats, SHIELD ensures your platform stays protected—without compromising user experience. The best part, our solution requires no training period - which means you see instant results.
To see how we help businesses gain over 13X ROI on their fraud investments, try a free demo with SHIELD.
Frequently Asked Questions About Browser Fingerprinting
Q. How does browser fingerprinting compare to traditional fraud prevention methods?
Browser fingerprinting provides a more sophisticated and covert method of fraud detection than traditional approaches like cookies, which are easily deleted or manipulated. It offers higher accuracy and adaptability against modern fraud tactics.
Q: Does browser fingerprinting violate privacy regulations?
No. Properly implemented browser fingerprinting does not collect personally identifiable information (PII). For example, SHIELD’s solution is completely compliant with GDPR and ISO-27001 Certified. It focuses on device attributes rather than user data, ensuring responsible data handling.
Q: How difficult is it to implement browser fingerprinting?
Browser fingerprinting can be easily integrated into existing fraud detection systems through third-party providers, often with minimal setup and technical effort.
Q: Is browser fingerprinting worth the investment?
Absolutely. The cost of implementing browser fingerprinting is far lower than the potential financial and reputational damages caused by fraud. It delivers long-term value by protecting businesses from emerging threats.
