What is Safari Safe Browsing Data and why does it need to copy every time I sync my iDevice?

Whenever syncing iDevices to iTunes, I always see "Safari Safe Browsing Data" being copied. This naturally sounds alarming. Is Apple tracking my browsing history‽

What exactly is it, and why does it need to copy every time?

Solution 1:

Google Safe Browsing Data Syncs to iOS Devices Via iTunes explains what it is:

This database, provided by Google, is used by mobile Safari to check for known malicious web sites. To check if this is activated on your iOS device, go to Settings > Safari, then look for the Fraud Warning slider. If it’s not set to “On,” do so; it’s a good way to protect your device and yourself from known malicious websites.