Should I always clear the web browser cache? (lemmy.ml)

submitted 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) by citytree@lemmy.ml to c/privacy@lemmy.ml

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I am using Mozilla Firefox as my web browser. I have configured it to clear cookies, active logins, form & search history, and offline website data when I close Firefox. Should I also configure it to clear the cache? What are the privacy implications if I don't clear the cache?

EDIT: additional information:

My goal is to reduce fingerprinting and tracking by websites.
I use Mozilla Firefox on my personal laptop that almost never leaves my residence. The laptop has full disk encryption. I am the only user of the laptop.
I don’t erase my web browser history. I want to keep browser history for my future reference.

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[-] glorious_puffy@lemmy.world 5 points 1 year ago

Is this really necessary since if it is your own device

[-] library_napper 2 points 1 year ago

Yes, because caches willl change the way your browser sends requests, and this can be used to fingerprint you

[-] glorious_puffy@lemmy.world 1 points 1 year ago

Do I have to clear history too? Or just cookies and site data is fine?

[-] library_napper 1 points 1 year ago

Personally I shred the profile directory after every use.

Or use a QubrsOS DispVM, so the entire VM is destroyed after every use.

this post was submitted on 09 Oct 2023

41 points (91.8% liked)

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