Overview
Brave Search has introduced a new user-controlled ranking system called Rerank, processing 1.2 billion queries monthly across 75 million users. While the feature offers potential privacy implications, it implements local storage controls and cookie-based preference management
Whom it may concern
- Enterprise Security Officers
- Privacy Compliance Officers
- Search Infrastructure Administrators
- Information Security Teams
Key Findings
- Local storage implementation prevents centralized data collection
- Cookie-based preference system maintains user isolation
- No third-party validation of privacy claims
- User-controlled algorithm adjustment versus traditional black-box approaches
Action Items
For Organizations
- Conduct privacy impact assessment before deployment
- Implement clear cookie management policies
- Document Rerank configurations in security policies
- Monitor for potential data leakage vectors
For Users
- Regular clearing of Rerank preferences
- Review domain ranking choices quarterly
- Maintain separate profiles for different use contexts
Sources
- [BleepingComputer](https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/technology/brave-search-now-lets-users-rerank-results-from-favorite-sites/)
