Action 2306: Mitigating Browser Fiongerprinting in Web Specifications

Hi,

as per a now somewhat dust-covered action, namely 2306, I have reviewed the IG Note Mitigating Browser Fingerprinting in Web Specifications (https://www.w3.org/TR/fingerprinting-guidance/). Though my expertise in matters of fingerprinting is somewhat limited, I consider myself to be versed enough on the topic to be able to provide at least a review of this documents' implications in terms of accessibility and the relevance of accessibility for the subject at hand.

In my estimation, this is a well-considered and well written note which truly does what it sets out to do. An argument may plausibly be made that disability and accessibility concerns should be spelled out in the earlier sections of the note, where it deals with reasons for and results of fingerprinting as such. As it stands, the only example mentioned of the harmful effects of fingerprinting pertain to nation states' persecution of individuals or groups. It may, however, be safe to assume that a reader, interested enough to seek out this document, can draw their own conclusions as to any other persons affected harmfully by fingerprinting, if for no other reason than it having been in some way or other involved in multiple political and business scandals over the last several decades.

Should persons with disabilities or accessibility concerns be mentioned here specifically, this would create a strong incentive for making a list of other possibly harmed groups being explicit or implicit victims of fingerprinting and its harmful effects, a list whose sheer size and scope may, though imposing, somewhat detract from the actual goal of the document and its proposals.

My current position is to let the note stand as is and let readers make their own judgments as to the possible objects of fingerprinting. The measures proposed for its mitigation remain valid and solid.

I do not arrive at this conclusion lightly and it isn't carved in stone. Any and all arguments to the contrary or to the furtherment of my argument are most welcome.

Many thanks in advance,

Best,
Fredrik


______________________________________________
Fredrik Fischer (he/him)
Digital Accessibility Expert
Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies
Certified Web Accessibility Expert
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