摘要 |
A method of anonymously providing user information while browsing internet web sites by inputting a data information record into storage, dynamically generating a user alias, linking the user alias with the user data record to form a user information record (UIR) and then transmitting the anonymous user information record automatically or in response to user commands. This alias identification is transmitted to a remote internet operating computer of a web site that receives the information inputted for collecting information, such as statistical or demographic information. Once the combined UIR has been formed, a communication protocol of the invention allows the user to deliver the UIR to any web site that is accessed. The protocol of the invention also allows the web site operator to read the UIR and aggregate any information it desires about the user. However, as noted, the web site can only gain access to the user's alias identification in combination with the user data. In this way the web site is enabled to collect general demographic information about its user base while being isolated from the true identity of the user. With such privacy the quality of the demographic information can be improved and the statistical reliability is improved by detection of repeat hits by the same user.
|