What is the "Google Analytics Opt-out" extension and how does it work?

This tool aims to restrict Google Analytics' tracking of users. Essentially, the extension inserts a straightforward configuration object into each page, signaling to the Analytics script not to track the user. Unlike adblocker scripts that monitor web requests and prevent the analytics script from being fetched, this extension doesn't intercept web requests; instead, it peacefully instructs the script not to log the current user's activity.

[Version >= 0.3.0] introduces support for both opt-out and network-based methods to prevent tracking.

• Network Method: This approach uses a set of static rules to block known tracking addresses from executing code in your browser. It also blocks tracking images (often single-pixel images). This method effectively prevents tracking for Google Analytics and Adobe Analytics.
• Opt-Out Method: This method disables tracking for Google Analytics but does not apply to Adobe Analytics, as it lacks a built-in configuration to honor user requests.

You can configure these methods through the right-click context menu over the action button, which includes options to enable or disable each. By default, version 0.3.0 uses the network method to block root tracking addresses and avoids injecting scripts into webpages. To use the opt-out method instead, disable the network method and enable opt-out.

Note: On Chrome, a badge counter displays the total number of blocked network requests. This feature is not yet available in Firefox.

What's new in this version?

Please check the Logs section.

Why does this extension require permission to access my browsing history?

This extension inserts an object into every page to restrain the Analytics script from reporting user activity. You need to grant permission for the extension to access all hostnames to interact with page analytics. If you want to limit the extension's functionality to specific websites, use the built-in option in Chromium browsers. Right-click the extension's action button and select "This Can Read and Change Site Data" from the context menu to restrict script injection.

How do I determine if a website is using the Analytics script?

This extension reveals a page action button for web pages that seek tracking. In Firefox and Opera, the button appears on the right side of the address bar, while in Chrome, it's added to the toolbar area. When the button has color, it signifies that at least one tracking code has been requested by one of the page frames. Hover over the action button to view the total number of Analytics requests. In Chromium browsers like Chrome, you can pin the extension button to the toolbar area for easy access. Right-click the extension button, then select "Pin" or "Pin to toolbar" from the context menu.

How can I use "navigator.doNotTrack" alongside this extension on Chrome and Firefox to enhance tracking protection?

To enable the "navigator.doNotTrack" setting, you need to adjust your browser's privacy preferences. This setting signals websites that you prefer not to be tracked, though not all websites honor this request.

In Google Chrome, open the browser settings and navigate to the "Privacy and Security" section. Look for the "Send a 'Do Not Track' request with your browsing traffic" option and toggle it on. This enables the "navigator.doNotTrack" property, informing websites of your preference.

For Firefox, open the browser menu and go to "Settings." Under the "Privacy & Security" section, find the "Enhanced Tracking Protection" options. Select the setting that sends a "Do Not Track" signal to websites. You can choose to enable it always or only in private browsing mode.