Back in October we noted that security researchers had discovered that Verizon was injecting all of its wireless users' packets with a unique identifier header, or UIDH. Said UIDH displays user information about their online behavior and, despite Verizon's previous claims, can be utilized by any third party looking to build consumer profiles based on the data. While Verizon allowed users to opt out of the tailored ads the service delivered uses, users were unable to opt out of having their traffic modified and the header inserted.

"Verizon Wireless has updated its systems so that we will stop inserting the UIDH after a customer opts out of the relevant mobile advertising program or activates a line that is ineligible for the advertising program," (like government or business lines), Verizon announced in a change to its Relevant Mobile Advertising FAQ this week.

Customers can opt out by visiting Verizon's privacy settings website, or by calling 866-211-0874.

Verizon of course acted to prevent regulators from pushing for new regulations that would have forced the company to offer opt out (or opt in) functionality for such programs. The company had been manipulating traffic for two years before security researchers noticed the embedded UIDH. AT&T was also experimenting with such a program, but stated it was only a trial -- one they stopped immediately as soon as media reports on the new "zombie cookies" began to surface.