tracking-ISSUE-260: method for validating DNT signal from user [TPE Last Call]

tracking-ISSUE-260: method for validating DNT signal from user [TPE Last Call]

http://www.w3.org/2011/tracking-protection/track/issues/260

Raised by: Jack Hobaugh
On product: TPE Last Call

http://lists.w3.org/Archives/Public/public-tracking-comments/2014Jun/0005.html (Comment #2. Also present in some form in comments of Alan, Peter, Brooks, Chris Mejia, David Wainberg, Max, Vivek, Ari, Tim, Mike Zaneis.)


The technical approach of the TPE lacks a method by which the origin of the DNT signal can be validated to ensure that the signal was set as the result of an informed user choice. The stated goal of the TPE protocol “is to allow a user to express their personal preference . . . .” “The basic principle is that a tracking preference expression is only transmitted when it reflects a deliberate choice by the user. In the absence of user choice, there is no tracking preference expressed.” (TPE Section 4). NAI agrees with this stated principle but the TPE does not provide the necessary requirements for enforcing this principle within the protocol or for determining a rogue DNT signal. Without a locked down DNT signal, the server cannot determine whether the DNT signal is a valid signal. NAI respectfully requests that this issue be addressed before moving forward with the TPE.

Received on Sunday, 13 July 2014 02:05:00 UTC