aa.online-metrix.net: LexisNexis’ Invasive Fraud Detection Tracker

LexisNexis Risk Solutions operates aa.online-metrix.net as part of its ThreatMetrix platform to track user behavior and device details for fraud detection. While marketed as a security tool, it collects a disturbing amount of personal data. As Privacy Auditors, we’re here to reveal its practices and guide you on protecting your privacy.

What Is aa.online-metrix.net?

This domain is tied to LexisNexis’ fraud prevention services, used by banks, retailers, and other businesses. It profiles users by analyzing device fingerprints and behavioral patterns, often without explicit user knowledge or consent.

Data It Collects

When you interact with a site using this tracker, it grabs:

• Device Fingerprint: Browser settings, plugins, and canvas data for a unique ID.
• IP Address: Your digital address for location linkage.
• Geolocation: IP-derived location, down to city or region.
• Behavioral Patterns: Typing speed, mouse movements, and navigation.
• Device Identifiers: Hardware model and unique IDs.
• Browser Type: Logs Chrome or Safari with version.
• Operating System: Records Windows or Android version.
• Screen Resolution: Captures display size for identification.
• Network Info: Logs connection type like Wi-Fi or 4G.
• Timestamps: Records actions with precise timing.

This creates a detailed digital identity for risk scoring.

Who Gets Your Data?

LexisNexis shares your information with:

• Business Client: Banks or retailers using fraud prevention services.
• Third-Party Analytics Provider: For risk scoring and data enhancement.
• Government Agency: If required by law, though transparency is limited.

How to Protect Yourself

At Privacy Auditors, we’re dedicated to your privacy. Here’s how to minimize tracking:

• Use a VPN: Mask your IP with Mullvad to disrupt location data.
• Block Scripts: Use Privacy Auditor’s paid service or extensions like NoScript.
• Spoof Device Data: Use tools to randomize browser fingerprints.
• Browse Anonymously: Use Tor or Firefox with strict protection.

Combine these for a robust defense against profiling.

Sources

• LexisNexis Privacy Policy: https://risk.lexisnexis.com/privacy-policy
• Online Metrix Service Overview: https://risk.lexisnexis.com/products/threatmetrix

This is a legal disclaimer. All information is provided for educational purposes only.