Device fingerprint
A unique identifier, akin to an individual's fingerprints, a device fingerprint is a collection of information about a specific device, such as a computer or smartphone, that can be used to distinguish it from others, enabling websites and applications to recognize and track users for various purposes, including security and personalization.
Example
When a user visits a website, their device shares certain information, such as the browser type, operating system, screen resolution, and installed plugins. This collection of attributes creates a unique profile, or device fingerprint, which can be used to identify the user's device on subsequent visits. Online retailers might use device fingerprints to personalize the user experience, while banks could leverage them for fraud detection and prevention, verifying that a user's device matches their known fingerprint before granting access to sensitive information.