js.monitor.azure.com: How Microsoft Azure Tracks Your App Performance

Microsoft’s tracker, js.monitor.azure.com, is part of Azure Monitor, a tool for tracking app and website performance. It collects detailed data on user interactions and device specifics, creating privacy concerns. Here’s what you should know.

What Is js.monitor.azure.com?

This domain belongs to Azure Monitor, a service within Microsoft’s cloud platform that tracks how apps and sites function. It monitors user behavior and technical metrics, but this comes at the cost of your personal data being exposed.

Data It Collects

When you use an app or site with Azure Monitor, it gathers:

• IP Address: Pinpoints your location, often linked to your home or office.
• User ID: A unique identifier tracking you across sessions.
• Session ID: Connects your actions during a single visit.
• Device Type: Identifies if you’re using a ‘MacBook Pro’ or ‘Galaxy S21’.
• Operating System: Logs specifics like ‘Windows 10’ or ‘Android 12’.
• Browser Type: Records your browser, such as ‘Edge 105.0’.
• Performance Metrics: Captures load times and errors down to the millisecond.
• Behavioral Data: Tracks clicks and navigation paths.

This data creates a clear picture of your online activity and device setup.

Who Gets Your Data?

Microsoft shares your information with:

• App Developers: Those using Azure Monitor for performance insights.
• Third-Party Contractors: Entities processing data for Microsoft.
• Cloud Infrastructure Providers: Internal Microsoft systems storing data.
• Government Agencies: Per Microsoft’s 2024 transparency report, over 165,000 law enforcement requests globally, with 70% U.S. compliance for IP and user data.

How to Protect Yourself

At Privacy Auditor, we strive to shield your privacy. Here’s how to limit tracking by js.monitor.azure.com:

• Use Tracker Blockers: Privacy Auditor’s paid service can block Azure scripts.
• Mask with a VPN: Hide your IP using a VPN like Mullvad to obscure location.
• Select Privacy Browsers: Use Firefox with strict protection or Tor Browser.
• Block JavaScript: Disable scripts via browser settings or NoScript, though some functionality may break.
• Clear Cookies Regularly: Remove tracking cookies to disrupt session links.

Stack these defenses for better protection.

Sources

• Microsoft Privacy Statement: https://privacy.microsoft.com/en-us/privacystatement
• Azure Monitor Documentation: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/azure-monitor/

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