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How to Scan a Website for Trackers Using HTML or HAR

Learn how to detect tracking pixels, analytics scripts, and fingerprinting without uploading data. This guide walks you through HTML source scans and HAR network captures using ByteTools Privacy Scanner.

Scan a Website Now →

Quick Start: Scan in 3 Steps

1
Get HTML or HAR
2
Paste or Upload
3
Analyze Results
Open Privacy Scanner →

Why Use HTML vs HAR?

HTML scanning finds trackers embedded in page source: scripts, iframes, tracking pixels, and known signatures. It is fast and works offline if you have a saved HTML file.

HAR scanning analyzes network requests captured during page load. This is often more accurate because it reflects what actually loaded in the browser.

Tip

If a site uses heavy script injection, HAR analysis will catch trackers that do not appear in static HTML.

Method A: Scan HTML Source

  1. Open the website in your browser.
  2. Right-click and choose View Page Source.
  3. Copy all HTML (Cmd/Ctrl + A, then Cmd/Ctrl + C).
  4. Paste into ByteTools Privacy Scanner.
  5. Click Analyze to see trackers and privacy score.

Method B: Scan a HAR File

Chrome

  1. Open DevTools (F12).
  2. Go to the Network tab and check Preserve log.
  3. Reload the page.
  4. Right-click the request list → Save all as HAR with content.

Firefox

  1. Open DevTools → Network.
  2. Reload the page.
  3. Right-click → Save All As HAR.

Safari

  1. Enable Develop menu: Safari → Settings → Advanced → Show Develop menu.
  2. Develop → Show Web Inspector → Network.
  3. Reload the page, then export HAR from the Network tab.

How to Interpret Results

  • • Privacy Score: Lower scores mean more high-impact trackers detected.
  • • Category Breakdown: See where tracking is concentrated (ads, analytics, fingerprinting).
  • • Type Labels: Identify tag managers, session replay, or A/B testing tools.
  • • Recommendations: Actionable suggestions for users and privacy teams.

Troubleshooting: No Trackers Found

  • • DNS filters or ad blockers can remove tracker requests before capture.
  • • Some scripts load after user interaction or consent banners.
  • • Try the built-in demo HTML to confirm the scanner works.

Privacy Promise

ByteTools Privacy Scanner runs entirely in your browser. HTML and HAR files are processed locally, with no uploads or tracking. This makes it safe for enterprise audits and sensitive vendor reviews.

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