Ghostery for Chrome: Open-Source Tracker and Ad Blocker
Ghostery AdBlocker for Privacy · for Windows, macOS and Linux
Developer: Ghostery GmbH (opens in a new tab)
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
The download link points to the program’s official source; the file is not hosted on this site. Link address: chromewebstore.google.com
Link not working? Let us know
Ghostery AdBlocker for Privacy is a free, open-source Chrome extension from Ghostery GmbH that blocks ads and trackers, removes cookie consent pop-ups and shows which companies operate the trackers on a page.
Ghostery started as a tool that shows you who is tracking you, and it still does that well. Today it is also a full ad blocker, and its source code is published on GitHub under the GPL-3.0 licence.
What Ghostery does on a page
- Blocks ads: including video ads on YouTube and Facebook.
- Stops trackers: requests from known tracking companies are blocked before they can collect data.
- Handles cookie pop-ups: consent banners are removed automatically, and Ghostery expresses dissent to tracking on your behalf.
- Tracker details: for any site you can see how many trackers there are, what type they are and which company runs them.
- Search previews: tracker information appears next to search results, so you can choose cleaner sites before clicking.
Install and first look
- The Download button opens Ghostery’s official page on the Chrome Web Store.
- Click Add to Chrome and accept the permissions. Like any blocker, Ghostery needs access to the pages you visit.
- Visit any news site and click the Ghostery icon to see the tracker breakdown.
How Ghostery is funded
Ghostery is free to use. Users can optionally become paying Contributors to help fund development and WhoTracks.Me, Ghostery’s public tracker database. Paying is not required for blocking.
Data handling
According to the store listing, the developer has disclosed that it does not collect or use your data. If you want a tracker blocker that learns by itself instead of relying on lists, look at Privacy Badger.
Pros
- Shows who operates each tracker
- Removes cookie consent pop-ups for free
- Open source under GPL-3.0
Cons
- The detailed tracker views can be more than casual users need
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ghostery open source?
Yes. The Ghostery browser extension is developed in the open on GitHub under the GPL-3.0 licence.
Does Ghostery remove cookie consent banners?
Yes. It removes intrusive cookie pop-ups automatically and expresses dissent to online tracking for you.
Ghostery AdBlocker for PrivacyOpen source
Download (opens in a new tab)
