DuckDuckGo for iPhone now strips trackers from copied links

DuckDuckGo's iOS app has added a Copy Clean Link feature that automatically removes tracking identifiers and extra parameters from copied URLs. This means when you share a link with someone, you pass along only the page address, without hidden data that could be used for device fingerprinting.

The problem it solves is familiar: copying a link from a social network or messenger often puts more into the clipboard than just a clean URL. A long tail of parameters after the question mark gets included too. For instance, a link to an article may carry utm tags and fbclid identifiers that reveal where the user came from and which campaign attracted them. Forwarding such a link passes that data along, which is undesirable.

Copy Clean Link removes everything that follows the question mark, including the question mark itself. The feature works when copying links in chats, email, and other apps via the iPhone clipboard. The update appeared on the App Store in late July, but DuckDuckGo representatives did not respond to requests for comment.

It's important to note the limitation: the feature does not block cookies or other trackers that activate when the link is opened. It only cleans the link at the copy stage. What happens after the recipient clicks depends on their browser. If they lack tracking protection, some data may still be collected.

Still, for privacy-conscious users, this is a meaningful step forward. You can now share links without worrying that they carry markers revealing your online activity. The feature is especially useful for those who frequently forward materials from Facebook and other platforms with aggressive analytics.