Email tracking refers to the use of hidden tools—often small, invisible images called tracking pixels—that report back to the sender when an email is opened. These pixels are usually just 1×1 in size and are embedded in HTML emails, which load images automatically.
Some trackers go further, logging:
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The time and date you opened the email
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Your IP address (which can estimate your location)
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Your device and operating system
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Whether and when you clicked links in the message
Marketers, advertisers, and even some employers use this information to gauge engagement or target ads. But it’s not just annoying—it’s a serious invasion of privacy.
How to Tell If an Email Is Being Tracked
Unfortunately, you can’t always spot tracking manually, but here are a few clues:
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The email is in HTML format and contains images, even tiny ones.
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It comes from a marketing, sales, or subscription-based service.
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When you open the email, images are automatically displayed.
However, many trackers are invisible, so the safest approach is to assume marketing emails are being tracked.
How to Block Email Tracking
Here are the most effective steps to stop senders from spying on your inbox activity:
1. Disable Automatic Image Loading
This is the simplest and most effective tactic. Most email trackers use images to collect data, so if your email client doesn’t load images automatically, the trackers won’t activate.
How to disable automatic image loading:
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Gmail (Web/Desktop):
Go to Settings → General → Images → Select “Ask before displaying external images.” -
Apple Mail (macOS & iOS):
Go to Mail Preferences → Viewing → Uncheck “Load remote content in messages.” -
Outlook:
Go to File → Options → Trust Center → Trust Center Settings → Automatic Download → Check “Don’t download pictures automatically in HTML e-mail messages.”
2. Use Plain Text or Text-Only Mode
Plain text emails can’t contain tracking pixels or embedded images. Some email clients allow you to switch to a text-only view or to read messages in plain text by default.
3. Use Privacy-Focused Email Services
Consider switching to email providers that prioritize privacy:
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ProtonMail: End-to-end encryption, image-blocking by default.
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Tutanota: Encrypted, no external image loading.
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StartMail: Offers tracking protection and strong encryption.
4. Use Browser Extensions or Plugins
Extensions like Ugly Email (for Gmail) and PixelBlock can detect and block tracking pixels before they load.
5. Use Temporary or Aliased Email Addresses
Use aliasing or disposable email addresses when signing up for newsletters, online shopping, or unknown sources. Services like SimpleLogin, AnonAddy, and Firefox Relay can help mask your real email address.
6. Click Links with Caution
Many email links contain unique tracking parameters. If you’re interested in an offer, try visiting the company’s website directly instead of clicking the email link.
Bonus: How to Tell Who’s Tracking You
Some browser extensions and email add-ons reveal which services (like Mailchimp, HubSpot, or Salesforce) are sending and tracking your emails. These tools don’t just block tracking—they help you understand who is behind it.
Email tracking may seem harmless, but it’s a subtle form of surveillance that can reveal more about you than you’d like. Whether you’re concerned about marketers, spammers, or simply your digital footprint, taking steps to block email tracking is an easy win for your privacy. With a few changes to your settings and habits, you can regain control over your inbox and stop invisible eyes from watching your every click.
Would you like a step-by-step PDF guide for disabling tracking in all major email apps?