- From: Lukasz Olejnik (W3C) <lukasz.w3c@gmail.com>
- Date: Thu, 12 Nov 2015 21:18:06 +0000
- To: "public-privacy (W3C mailing list)" <public-privacy@w3.org>, public-audio@w3.org
- Message-ID: <CAC1M5qqt21Ddw0U8EmbiKYNE42DByjN-pjqERYiOSQsBGdBPDQ@mail.gmail.com>
Dear all, I would like to raise the current issue of tracking using ultrasound audio beacons/markers. SilverPush PRISM [1] is a program/method enabling cross-device tracking. In short, it is the association of users of desktops/laptops with devices such as smartphones. The intention is to enhance tracking and profiling, so users can experience more rich Web content, of course. It supposedly uses ultrasound beacons via speakers, emitted by scripts on websites. These can then be detected by smartphone apps. It is, however, bringing some transparency issues. Users are unaware of this, can't provide consent, and can't configure their browsers according to their expectations. The current privacy considerations of Web Audio API [4] are not addressing these concerns. Possibly we should ask for an update? We might consider investigating, and deciding - if possible - should Web Audio: - be subject of permissions - limit the output to filter out infra/ultrasound, if possible (?) - have an additional note Thanks and regards Lukasz Ps. This is addressed to PING and Audio Working Group. Pps. As a side note - [3] - TV advertisements can emit ultrasound beacons as well. [1] http://www.silverpush.co/?_escaped_fragment_=/prism#!/prism [2] http://www.steamfeed.com/silverpush-launches-cross-device-ad-targeting-with-unique-audio-beacon-technology/ [3] http://thetechportal.in/2015/09/23/silverpush-funding/ [4] http://www.w3.org/TR/webaudio/#PrivacyConsiderations
Received on Thursday, 12 November 2015 21:18:37 UTC