Psylo, a new privacy-focused iOS browser launched by Mysk, has introduced a groundbreaking approach to combat digital fingerprinting by assigning each browser tab its own unique IP address. The browser isolates tabs through a system called ‘silos,’ where each tab operates separately with customized anti-fingerprinting defenses. These defenses include canvas randomization and other measures that ensure each tab appears to originate from a different device. This method is claimed to offer enhanced privacy compared to traditional VPNs, as the virtual networks not only mask the user’s IP address but also alter data used for fingerprinting. For example, Psylo adjusts the browser’s time zone and language to match the geolocation of each proxy, adding more entropy to the fingerprinting process.
Mysk, the developers of Psylo, claim that while other privacy-focused browsers like Brave have anti-fingerprinting measures, these are less effective on iOS due to Apple’s restrictions. Psylo’s approach, however, leverages a client-side JavaScript solution to achieve better results on iOS. The browser is designed to minimize user data collection, with no user accounts, stored IP addresses, or browsing history. Mysk emphasizes that the only data retained is bandwidth usage, which is necessary to prevent abuse. The data is associated with a randomly generated ID tied to Apple subscriptions, ensuring user anonymity. Mysk also highlights that Apple does not share user identities with developers, even if a court order were issued, and that data associated with the ID is only retained for a limited period. The browser is available exclusively on iOS and iPadOS, with an Android version potentially in development if there is sufficient demand. The subscription model offers $9.99 per month or $99 annually in the U.S. The browser’s unique approach to privacy highlights the growing importance of user data protection in an increasingly surveillance-oriented digital landscape.
Psylo Browser Introduces Tab-Specific IP Addresses for Enhanced Privacy
In a significant development for digital privacy, Psylo, a privacy-focused iOS browser developed by Mysk, has introduced a new approach to combat digital fingerprinting by assigning each browser tab its own unique IP address. This innovation aims to shield users from the growing threat of digital tracking, which has become a major concern in an era of increasing online surveillance.
The browser’s approach, called ‘silos,’ isolates each tab with customized anti-fingerprinting defenses. These defenses include measures like canvas randomization, ensuring that even if two Psylo tabs open the same website, they appear to originate from different devices. This is a notable advancement, as it not only prevents fingerprinting but also adds an additional layer of privacy by making the digital footprint of each tab appear distinct.
Mysk, the developers behind Psylo, claim that this method provides better privacy than traditional virtual private networks (VPNs). While VPNs mask the user’s IP address, they generally do not alter the data used for fingerprinting. Psylo goes a step further by adjusting the browser’s time zone and language to match the geolocation of each proxy. This creates more entropy in the fingerprinting process, making it significantly harder for websites to track users across different tabs.
Despite its advantages, Psylo faces challenges in competing with established privacy-focused browsers like Brave, which also implement anti-fingerprinting measures. However, Mysk argues that these measures are less effective on iOS due to Apple’s restrictions on desktop applications. By leveraging a client-side JavaScript solution, Psylo manages to achieve better results on iOS, offering users a more robust privacy option on the platform.
Mysk emphasizes that the browser is designed to minimize user data collection, ensuring that no personally identifiable information or browsing data is stored. The only data retained is bandwidth usage, which is used to prevent abuse and is associated with a randomly generated ID tied to Apple subscriptions. Mysk clarifies that Apple does not share user identities with developers, even if a court order were issued, and that data associated with the ID is only retained for a limited period.
Psylo is currently available exclusively on iOS and iPadOS, with the possibility of an Android version being developed if there is sufficient demand. The subscription model offers $9.99 per month or $99 annually in the U.S., with a focus on providing users with a secure and private browsing experience. The browser’s innovative approach underscores the growing importance of user data protection in an increasingly surveillance-oriented digital landscape.