Web browsing history

It is usually stored locally by web browsers[1][2] in order to provide the user with a history list to go back to previously visited pages.

Browsers also utilize it to enable autocompletion in their address bar for quicker and more convenient navigation to frequently visited pages.

[5][6] Browser extensions such as History Trends Unlimited for Google Chrome (desktop version) allow the indefinite local storage of browsing history, exporting into a portable file, and self-analysis of browsing habits and statistics.

If the user already knows that the information is being collected ahead of time, the targeted advertisement could potentially create a positive effect, leading to a higher intention of clicking through the link.

Web browsing history could give reliable predictions on the purchasing behaviors of users.

When using personalized pricing, the profit of firms could increase by 12.99% compared to status quo cases.

When a user browses extensively on one site, the probability of requesting an additional page increases.

However, almost all the websites are tracked by adwares and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) which collect users' information without their consent.

[20] When third-party cookies collect the web browsing history of users from multiple websites, more information leads to more privacy concerns.

When the web browsing history from these two websites is combined, the user may be considered interested in news related to medical topics.

[10] When browsing history from different websites is combined, it could reflect a more complete image of the person.

In 2006, AOL released a large amount of data of its users, including search history.

[22] In 2020, Avast, a popular antivirus software, has been accused of selling browsing history to third parties.

The report shows that Avast sold users' data through Jumpshot, a marketing analytics tool.

[23] When the user feels there is a risk to privacy, one's intention of disclosing personal information will be lower, but the actions are not affected.

[30] There are a series of open source projects that try to protect their privacy through collecting their browsing history on the hard drive instead of the browser.