What is cross-platform tracking?

Definition

Cross-platform tracking can use verified identity, email, phone number, payment data, device identifiers, browser signals, advertising identifiers, network data, or behavioral patterns. A shared identity layer makes otherwise separate activities easier to combine.

Linking AI prompts with activity from other platforms can reveal sensitive interests and relationships beyond either source alone. Controls include purpose limitation, identifier separation, consent, anti-tracking restrictions, short retention, independent oversight, and meaningful anonymous or pseudonymous options.

ELI5

Cross-platform tracking connects what someone does in different apps, websites, or devices. The combined record can reveal more about the person than any one service sees alone.

For example, a verified identity shared across services could connect AI questions with shopping, social media, or workplace accounts. Keeping identifiers separate makes that linkage harder.

Frequently asked questions

What can enable cross-platform tracking?

Verified identity, email, phone numbers, payment records, device and advertising identifiers, cookies, browser fingerprints, network data, and behavior patterns can enable it.

Why is cross-platform tracking sensitive for AI use?

AI prompts can reveal private questions, plans, beliefs, work, health, and relationships that become more identifying when combined with records from other services.

Videos explaining cross-platform tracking

  1. Taylor Lorenz beside the headline Anonymous AI Use at Risk