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DuckDuckGo User Tracking
Based on the provided information, DuckDuckGo’s stance on user tracking is multifaceted. Here’s a breakdown:
Initial Claims: DuckDuckGo’s privacy policy is clear and unambiguous, stating that it doesn’t track users, doesn’t send searches to other sites, doesn’t use cookies, doesn’t collect personal information, and doesn’t log IP addresses or other computer information. These promises seem strong and transparent.
Confirmation of Tracking: In 2024, DuckDuckGo confirmed that it was tracking users, specifically mentioning that it worked with Microsoft to make ad clicks protected. This revelation contradicts its initial claims.
Contextual Advertising: DuckDuckGo uses contextual advertisements from partners like Ads by Microsoft, which may involve tracking users to some extent.
Browser Agreement with Microsoft: The DuckDuckGo browser allows Microsoft trackers due to a search agreement, which implies that some level of user tracking is involved.
Conclusion
While DuckDuckGo initially presented itself as a privacy-focused search engine with strong promises, subsequent revelations suggest that it does engage in some form of user tracking. The exact nature and extent of this tracking are unclear, but it appears to be tied to its agreements with Microsoft for contextual advertising. Users should exercise caution and carefully review DuckDuckGo’s updated privacy policies and practices before relying on the search engine for their online activities.