Tracking Techniques: Monitor Size Surveillance

Tracking someone by their monitor size is a technique that leverages screen resolution and monitor size to identify and follow a person's online activity. This method of tracking is often used in conjunction with other data points to create a unique fingerprint that can be used to identify and track an individual across different websites. While this technique is not perfect, it can provide valuable information for those looking to monitor someone's online behaviour.

One way to track someone by their monitor size is to use a website or application that can gather information about a user's screen resolution and size. This information can then be used to identify the user and track their activity across different websites or online services. Additionally, certain browser settings, such as maximising the window, can also provide websites with information about a user's monitor size, which can be used for tracking purposes.

It is important to note that this tracking method is not foolproof, as many people have standard monitor sizes and resolutions, making it difficult to uniquely identify an individual. However, when combined with other data points, such as browser settings, IP addresses, or online activity patterns, monitor size and resolution can become a valuable tool for tracking online behaviour.

Furthermore, tracking someone by their monitor size may raise ethical and legal concerns. It is generally recommended to obtain explicit consent before tracking someone's online activity, especially if it involves monitoring personal information or private spaces.

Tracking someone by their monitor size on Tor

The impact of resizing the browser window on privacy depends on the window size. Maximizing the Tor browser on a standard resolution screen, such as 1280x1024 or 1080p, is not as risky since many people use these resolutions. However, the adversary can still infer that the user is on a desktop PC rather than a laptop, as laptop screens often have different resolutions.

The most detrimental action for privacy is manually resizing the Tor browser to a random size instead of maximizing it. This makes the user's activity more noticeable, as they may become the only person with that specific browser size visiting multiple sites. This allows the adversary to track their activity across different websites, even if Tor uses different IPs for each site.

In conclusion, while it is possible to track someone by their monitor size on Tor, it is not a foolproof method. The effectiveness of this tracking technique depends on the user's screen resolution, browser window size, and whether they follow the recommended practice of using the default window size.

How to find out your monitor size

While it is possible to track someone by their monitor size, it is not a very accurate method. Websites can determine your monitor size when you maximise your browser window, and this can be used to track you. However, if you use a standard window size, you are less likely to be tracked in this way as your screen resolution won't be used as a factor to identify you.

To find out your monitor size, you can either manually measure it or look up the model number.

Manually Measuring Your Monitor

Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the horizontal length and vertical height of your monitor screen, excluding the frame or border. Multiply the length by the height to get the image area in square inches or centimetres. For example, if your monitor measures 16 inches by 10 inches, the image area is 16 x 10 = 160 square inches.

You can also use these measurements to find the aspect ratio by comparing the length and height. For example, if your monitor measures 16 inches by 10 inches, the aspect ratio is 16:10.

To find the diagonal measurement, which is usually referred to when describing monitor size, measure the distance between two opposite corners of the screen, excluding the bezel or frame. Alternatively, use the Pythagorean theorem by squaring the height and length measurements, adding them together, and finding the square root of the sum.

Looking Up Your Monitor's Model Number

If you don't want to manually measure your monitor, you can find out its size by looking up the model number on the manufacturer's website or using a search engine. The monitor size may be included in the model number. For example, Acer S201HL means the monitor size is 20 inches. Typically, the model number starts with one or two letters, followed by numbers, with the first two numbers after the letters indicating the monitor size.

Advantages of finding the monitor size

The monitor size of a person can be used to track them, as it is a component of a unique "fingerprint" that, when combined with other data, can be used to identify and follow an individual. While this method of tracking is not foolproof, it is one of many tools that can be used to compromise someone's privacy.

• Uniqueness: While a single data point like monitor size may not be enough to identify someone definitively, it can be a critical piece of a larger puzzle. When combined with other data points, such as screen resolution, aspect ratio, and browser window size, it can create a unique "fingerprint" that distinguishes one user from another. This fingerprint can then be used to track the individual across different websites and online activities.
• Passive Tracking: Monitor size tracking does not require any active input or consent from the user. Unlike methods that require installing software or physical access to a device, this method relies on information that can be passively observed and collected by websites and tracking software. This makes it a stealthy and unobtrusive way to gather information about a person's system.
• Correlation with Other Data: Monitor size can be correlated with other system information to create a more comprehensive profile. For example, by knowing the monitor size, resolution, and aspect ratio, one can deduce the pixel density, which is a critical factor in determining the optimal viewing distance for that specific setup. This, in turn, can provide insights into the user's physical distance from the screen, their posture, and even the layout of their workspace.
• Browser and System Details: Websites and tracking software can use monitor size, along with other display settings, to infer details about the user's browser and operating system. This information can then be used to tailor tracking methods or exploit specific vulnerabilities in the user's setup.
• User Behavior Insights: Monitor size can provide clues about a user's behavior and preferences. For example, a larger monitor size may indicate a preference for immersive experiences, such as gaming or multimedia consumption. On the other hand, smaller monitor sizes may suggest basic tasks, limited desk space, or a focus on productivity and multitasking. These insights can be valuable for targeted advertising, user profiling, or even social engineering attempts.

While finding the monitor size of a person is just one piece of the tracking puzzle, it underscores the importance of protecting one's online privacy and being vigilant about the digital trail we leave behind.

How to physically measure your monitor size

To physically measure your monitor's size, you will need a ruler or measuring tape. It is important to note that the size of a monitor is determined by its diagonal length, from one corner to the opposite corner.

First, you will need to measure the horizontal length of your monitor screen. Ensure that you do not include the frame or structure around the monitor, only measure the viewing screen.

Next, measure the vertical height of the monitor screen, again excluding the frame.

Then, to find the diagonal length, use a tape measure or ruler to measure the distance between two opposite corners of the screen. For example, measure from the top left corner of the screen to the bottom right corner.

Alternatively, you can use the Pythagorean theorem to calculate the diagonal length by measuring the width and height of the monitor and taking the square root of the sum of their squares.

If you are measuring a curved monitor, you will need to lay the tape measure flat against the curve to account for it.

In addition to the diagonal length, you may also want to determine the aspect ratio of your monitor. The aspect ratio is the ratio between the width and height of your screen. For example, a monitor with an aspect ratio of 16:9 indicates that for every 16 units of width, there are 9 units of height.

By following these steps, you can accurately measure the size of your monitor.

Optimal viewing distance

When it comes to determining the optimal viewing distance for a monitor, several factors come into play, including the physical characteristics of the monitor such as resolution, screen size, and pixel density, as well as more subjective elements like viewing preferences and individual eyesight.

The optimal viewing distance is influenced by the concept of "Minimum Viewing Distance," which refers to the minimum distance between your eyes and the screen to avoid distinguishing individual pixels. This distance is typically calculated based on the assumption of 20/20 vision, considered the average clarity of vision in the population. Higher pixel densities generally allow for shorter viewing distances, and mobile devices with smaller screens and higher pixel densities are designed for very short viewing distances.

For a 27" gaming monitor with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 (QHD), the recommended viewing distance is about 80 cm to 1 meter (3 feet). Sitting too close can cause eye strain and pixel distinction, while sitting too far may result in a loss of detail and image quality. The same monitor with a higher resolution of 3840 x 2160 (4K) would be best viewed from a slightly farther distance of 32" to 39" (2.5 to 3.25 feet).

It's worth noting that the optimal viewing distance can vary depending on personal preferences and the type of work or activity. For example, if you're frequently editing photos or doing graphic design work, you may prefer a shorter viewing distance to focus on fine details. On the other hand, if you primarily use your monitor for gaming or watching films from a distance, you might opt for a larger screen with a lower pixel density.

Additionally, the size of your desk and the available space in your room can also influence the optimal viewing distance. You should ensure that your setup allows for comfortable viewing without causing strain or requiring excessive head movements.

Frequently asked questions