RE: Defining Issue-5: What is tracking?

Hi John,

One problem with this definition is that the term 'Internet activities' is undefined.  Does this mean explicit actions that users initiate over the Internet such a navigation and form submission?  Does it cover explicit actions sent via XHR?  Does it cover covert actions that the user may not be aware of?

cheers
Fred

From: john@consumerwatchdog.org
Date: Thu, 4 Oct 2012 16:10:26 -0700
To: public-tracking@w3.org
Subject: Defining Issue-5: What is tracking?

Colleagues,
As many of you may have seen, I've been up all night for the past two days following the "discussions" in Amsterdam making a nuisance of myself on IRC asking people to remember to speak into the microphone.  I've repeatedly heard calls for definitions, particularly that of "tracking."
I have long held the view that one is not necessary for the spec; you need only spell out how to send the DNT header and what your obligations are when you get one. However, in the spirit of a genuine desire to move toward consensus I recently offered a definition on the list.  So far only Roy Fielding, another one of us participating from afar, responded. Here is what I proposed:
"Tracking is the collection and correlation of data about the Internet activities of a particular user, computer, or device, over time and across a website or websites."
Here is a link to the email chain: http://www.w3.org/2011/tracking-protection/track/issues/5
May I suggest that those who have repeatedly been calling for a definition now offer one?  Otherwise I would sadly reach the conclusion that such calls are nothing but deliberate attempts to stall the process and undermine the Working Group's efforts.
As ever,John

----------John M. SimpsonConsumer AdvocateConsumer Watchdog2701 Ocean Park Blvd., Suite 112Santa Monica, CA,90405Tel: 310-392-7041Cell: 310-292-1902www.ConsumerWatchdog.orgjohn@consumerwatchdog.org