Tool Insights
Home > Tools > Tool Details

Privacy Badger

Description

Privacy Badger is a free browser extension developed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) that automatically detects.
Privacy Badger operates by learning to identify trackers based on their behavior as you browse the web. Unlike traditional ad blockers that rely on predefined lists, Privacy Badger uses algorithmic tracking detection. When it observes a third-party domain tracking your activity across multiple websites without your consent, it blocks that domain from loading further content, effectively preventing covert surveillance and enhancing online privacy. It also attempts to send a Do Not Track signal to websites, blocking domains that disregard this request.

Key Applications

  • Blocking Covert Trackers: Automatically identifies and blocks invisible third-party trackers, pixels, and scripts that collect browsing data.
  • Enhancing Online Privacy: Prevents cross-site tracking, ensuring your web activity remains private from data brokers and advertisers.
  • Enforcing DNT: Actively blocks domains that ignore your browser's Do Not Track setting, adding an extra layer of privacy protection.
Black dot centered on a transparent background.
A red round push button with a white dot in the center on a black base.
Black solid circle on a white background.
Vector illustration of a large white and purple feather.
Purple dot on a transparent gray grid background.
White dot on a solid black background.

Who It’s For

Individuals concerned about online privacy and digital surveillance, users who want to automatically block behavioral advertising trackers, and those looking for a lightweight, list-free tracking blocker.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
✔️ Dynamic, behavior-based tracker detection; not reliant on static lists. ✖️ May occasionally block non-tracking elements that mimic tracking behavior, requiring manual adjustment.
✔️ Developed and maintained by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a trusted privacy advocate. ✖️ Primarily focused on tracking; does not block all ads like comprehensive ad blockers.
✔️ Lightweight, minimal resource usage, and simple user interface with automatic operation. ✖️ Requires browsing activity to "learn" and become fully effective against new or less common trackers.
Pros Cons
Very beginner-friendly Limited features compared to Others
Clean interface Less feature depth than others
Helpful community and resources Can feel slower at scale

How It Compares

  • Versus uBlock Origin: While uBlock Origin is a comprehensive content blocker effective against ads and trackers using extensive lists, Privacy Badger focuses specifically on behavioral tracking by learning and blocking domains that track you across sites. Privacy Badger offers more intelligent, dynamic tracking detection rather than relying solely on static lists.
  • Versus Ghostery: Ghostery also blocks trackers and ads, often providing more granular control and insights into specific trackers on a page. Privacy Badger, however, distinguishes itself with its dynamic, list-free learning approach, making it less reliant on human-maintained lists and potentially more effective against novel trackers.
  • Versus Brave Browser's built-in blocker: Brave's built-in shields offer robust ad and tracker blocking. Privacy Badger can complement these by providing an additional layer of dynamic, behavior-based tracking detection, especially useful for domains that might not be on Brave's default block lists but are still exhibiting tracking behavior.
White cursor pointer clicking on a blue dotted line with a small blue square at the end.
Black square with a fine white pixel border on a transparent background.
White scientific dot or connector symbol on a transparent background.
White circle with black dots scattered unevenly inside, resembling Braille pattern.

Bullet Point Features

  • Automatic Tracker Blocking
  • Dynamic Learning Algorithm Cookie Blocking
  • Do Not Track Enforcement Visible Tracker
  • List for Each Site Minimal Configuration Required
Black dot centered on a white background.
Black dot on a white background.
Black circle with a white dot in the center on a transparent background.
White dot on a solid black background.
Black dot centered on a white square background.
Blue circle with a white checkmark in the center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers about this tool’s features, usage ,Compares, and support to get started with confidence.

What is Privacy Badger and what does it offer?
Plus sign icon with small dots forming a grid inside the shape.

Privacy Badger is a privacy-focused browser extension developed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) that helps automatically block online trackers which monitor user behavior across websites.

How does Privacy Badger protect user privacy?
Green circle with a white plus sign in the center.

Privacy Badger identifies and blocks third-party trackers and scripts that attempt to follow users without consent. It learns as you browse and stops trackers that appear to be spying on your activity.

Is Privacy Badger easy to use?
Mathematical equation with a large plus sign highlighted in yellow background.

Yes, Privacy Badger is simple and beginner-friendly. Once installed, it runs automatically in the background and does not require manual setup or technical knowledge.

Can Privacy Badger work alongside other privacy tools?
White plus sign on a transparent background.

Yes, Privacy Badger works well with other privacy and security tools such as secure browsers, VPNs, and HTTPS-focused extensions, providing an added layer of protection.

Who should use Privacy Badger and what are the benefits?
Mathematical puzzle image showing a 9+4=2 equation with colorful number tiles on a blue grid background.

Privacy Badger is ideal for users who want more control over online tracking. It helps reduce invasive tracking, improves browsing privacy, and allows users to surf the web with greater confidence and transparency.

Privacy Badger
White text reading 'COMING SOON' on a dark blue background with scattered light particles and a glowing horizontal light effect.
#AdBlocker #Privacy #BrowserExtension
Free
Security, Privacy & Backup

Disclosure

All product names, logos and brands are property of their respective owners. Use is for educational and informational purposes only and does not imply endorsement. Links are to third-party sites not affiliated with Barndoor AI. Please see our Terms & Conditions for additional information.

Reviews from Our Users

Five white stars in green squares indicating a five-star rating.
8.07.2021
Trustpilot company logo featuring a green star above the word Trustpilot in white on a dark background.

"Overall, I like the core features, but the mobile UI still feels a bit clunky. Hope they fix this in future updates."

Smiling young man with short brown hair wearing a white shirt, set against a dark blue background with yellow circular patterns.
Tom W.
Marketing Manager
trustplilot-img
06/10/2025
Trustpilot logo featuring a green star above the white text 'Trustpilot' on a dark blue circular background.

"Their support team actually listens to feedback! I’ve seen new features added within weeks. That’s impressive.''

Smiling young man with dark hair and light facial hair on a dark blue background with yellow circular accents.
Alex Carter
Freelancer
Five white stars in green squares representing a five-star rating.
03/09/2025
Trustpilot logo featuring a green star above the word 'Trustpilot' on a dark blue circular background.

"Some advanced options take a bit of time to understand, but once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly powerful."

Smiling man with beard and glasses wearing a gray suit jacket and white shirt against a light gray background.
Ryan Blake
SaaS Consultant
Five white stars on green squares indicating a five-star rating.
12/08/2025
Trustpilot logo with a green star and white text on a dark background.

"I’ve tried several similar tools, but this one stands out for its clean interface and automation features. Totally worth the subscription."

Smiling young woman with long brown hair wearing a gray blazer and white shirt against a plain light background.
Sarah Mitchell
GrowthWave Agency