How do email tracking pixels and links work?
How do email tracking pixels and links work?
Introduction
When you open an email, the sender may already know it. This is done through email tracking pixels and tracking links. Understanding how they work helps you protect your privacy.
What is a tracking pixel?
A tracking pixel is an invisible tiny image (usually 1x1 pixel) embedded in the HTML of an email. When the client loads it, a request is sent to a server, which records the event.
What a tracking pixel can collect
What is a tracking link?
A tracking link is a modified hyperlink containing extra tracking parameters. Clicking it triggers a tracking event.
What a tracking link can collect
How to protect yourself
1. Use plain-text mode
Most clients let you view mail as plain text, which disables tracking pixels.
2. Use a temporary email
A temporary email isolates tracking info and avoids exposing your real address.
3. Browser extensions
Install anti-tracking extensions such as:
4. Client settings
In your mail client:
Summary
Email tracking is a double-edged sword. For marketers it provides valuable analytics; for users it means privacy leakage. Using a temporary email and sensible precautions can protect your privacy to some extent.