uBlock Origin Causing 'Too Many Redirects'? My Thoughts

I recently stumbled upon a fascinating discussion about a rather frustrating issue: the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error in Chrome, seemingly triggered by uBlock Origin. The user described encountering this error intermittently when performing Google searches, with the page briefly flashing the error before eventually resolving and displaying the search results. This got me thinking about the complexities of ad blocking and the potential for unintended consequences.

Let's delve into this issue, explore potential causes, and discuss how we, as users and advocates of ad blocking, can navigate such challenges.

Understanding the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS Error

Before diving into the specifics of uBlock Origin and its potential role in this error, it's crucial to understand what ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS signifies. This error, as the name suggests, indicates that a website is redirecting the browser in a loop. The browser is being bounced back and forth between different URLs without ever reaching the intended destination. This can happen for various reasons, including:

• Misconfigured redirects: The website's server might be set up with faulty redirect rules, causing the loop.
• Cookie issues: Corrupted or conflicting cookies can sometimes interfere with the redirection process.
• Caching problems: Stale cached data can lead to incorrect redirection attempts.
• Plugin or extension conflicts: As in the case we're discussing, browser extensions can sometimes interfere with the intended behavior of a website.

In the context of ad blocking, the error suggests that the ad blocker might be inadvertently disrupting the normal redirection flow of a website, particularly during search queries that often involve complex tracking and advertising redirects.

uBlock Origin and Potential Conflicts

uBlock Origin is a powerful and widely respected ad blocker known for its efficiency and low resource consumption. However, like any software, it's not immune to potential conflicts. Here's how uBlock Origin might contribute to the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error:

1. Aggressive Blocking Rules

uBlock Origin relies on filter lists, which are sets of rules that define what content to block. While these lists are generally well-maintained, they can sometimes contain overly aggressive rules that inadvertently block legitimate website functionality, including necessary redirects. If a filter list is blocking a crucial redirect URL used by Google Search, it could trigger the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error.

2. Dynamic Filtering

uBlock Origin's dynamic filtering feature allows users to create custom rules to block specific elements on a webpage. While this provides granular control, it also introduces the risk of creating rules that unintentionally interfere with website functionality. A poorly configured dynamic filtering rule could block a redirect, leading to the error.

3. Script Blocking

uBlock Origin is capable of blocking JavaScript, which is often used for redirects and tracking. While blocking scripts can enhance privacy and security, it can also break websites if essential scripts are blocked. If uBlock Origin is blocking a script responsible for handling redirects during a Google search, it could cause the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error.

4. Cache and Cookie Interference

Although less likely, uBlock Origin could potentially interact with browser caches and cookies in a way that contributes to the error. For example, if uBlock Origin is configured to aggressively clear cookies, it could disrupt the session management required for proper redirection.

Troubleshooting the Issue

If you encounter the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error while using uBlock Origin, here are some troubleshooting steps you can take:

1. Disable uBlock Origin Temporarily

The simplest way to determine if uBlock Origin is the culprit is to temporarily disable it. If the error disappears when uBlock Origin is disabled, it's highly likely that the ad blocker is the cause. You can disable uBlock Origin by clicking on its icon in the browser toolbar and toggling the power button.

2. Update Filter Lists

Outdated filter lists can sometimes contain erroneous rules. Updating your filter lists ensures that you have the latest and most accurate rules. To update your filter lists in uBlock Origin, go to the uBlock Origin settings (by clicking the icon and then the settings icon – a gear) and click "Purge all caches" under the "Filter lists" tab, followed by "Update now".

3. Review Custom Filters

If you've created any custom filters in uBlock Origin, review them carefully to ensure they're not overly aggressive or interfering with Google Search. Try disabling your custom filters one by one to see if any of them are causing the error. You can manage your custom filters in the "My filters" tab of the uBlock Origin settings.

4. Whitelist Google Search

If you suspect that uBlock Origin is blocking essential elements on Google Search, you can try whitelisting the domain. Whitelisting tells uBlock Origin to disable filtering on a specific website. To whitelist Google Search, click on the uBlock Origin icon in the browser toolbar, click the large power button to disable it for the current site (google.com), and refresh the page.

5. Check Cookie Settings

Ensure that your browser is configured to allow cookies from Google Search. In Chrome, you can check your cookie settings by going to Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data. Make sure that "Allow all cookies" is selected or that Google Search is not blocked in the "Sites that can always use cookies" or "Sites that can never use cookies" sections.

6. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Clearing your browser's cache and cookies can sometimes resolve redirection issues. In Chrome, you can clear your cache and cookies by going to Settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data. Select "Cookies and other site data" and "Cached images and files," and then click "Clear data."

7. Experiment with Different Filter Lists

If the problem persists, try disabling some of your filter lists. Some lists may be more aggressive than others. You can disable filter lists in the "Filter lists" tab of the uBlock Origin settings.

8. Reset uBlock Origin to Default Settings

As a last resort, you can try resetting uBlock Origin to its default settings. This will remove all custom filters and settings, effectively starting from scratch. To reset uBlock Origin, go to the "Settings" tab and click "Restore to default settings."

The Bigger Picture: Balancing Privacy and Functionality

This issue highlights a fundamental challenge in the world of ad blocking: the need to balance privacy and functionality. While ad blockers like uBlock Origin are essential tools for protecting our privacy and improving our browsing experience, they can sometimes interfere with website functionality, leading to unexpected errors. It is crucial to remember that websites rely on revenue, often generated from advertising, to provide content.

As users, we need to be mindful of this balance and be prepared to troubleshoot issues that arise. This means understanding how ad blockers work, being willing to experiment with different settings, and reporting any issues we encounter to the developers of ad blockers and websites.

As developers of AdBlock for Mobile, we are constantly working to refine our blocking rules and algorithms to minimize the risk of unintended consequences. We are committed to providing a seamless and reliable ad-blocking experience without compromising website functionality. We believe that by working together, users, developers, and website owners can create a web that is both private and functional.

DNS-Based Blocking: A More Robust Approach for Mobile

While browser extensions like uBlock Origin offer granular control, they are limited to the specific browser in which they are installed. For comprehensive ad blocking on mobile devices, we recommend a DNS-based approach, which works at the network level and protects all apps and browsers on your device.

With AdBlock for Mobile, you can easily configure your device to use our DNS servers, which automatically block ads and trackers system-wide. This approach offers several advantages:

• System-wide protection: Blocks ads in all apps and browsers.
• Improved performance: Reduces battery drain and data usage.
• Easy setup: Simple configuration process on both iOS and Android.
• No browser limitations: Works with any browser you choose.

DNS-based blocking provides a more robust and reliable solution for ad blocking on mobile devices, minimizing the risk of conflicts and ensuring a consistent experience across all apps and browsers. It's a great way to enhance your privacy and security without sacrificing functionality.

Final Thoughts

The ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS issue, as experienced by the user I read about, serves as a reminder of the complexities of ad blocking and the potential for unintended consequences. While ad blockers are essential tools for protecting our privacy, it's important to be aware of the potential for conflicts and be prepared to troubleshoot issues that arise. Ultimately, the best ad-blocking strategy involves a combination of tools and techniques, tailored to your specific needs and preferences. As always, we continue to strive for a balance between effective blocking and uninterrupted browsing.