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Incognito Mode Doesn’t Mean Stealth Surfing

June 4, 2020

Browsers use different names such as incognito mode or private browsing to describe increased protection of your privacy. The mode does up the privacy game, but it doesn't mean that your internet activity isn't tracked. Basically, incognito/private browsing just means that data isn't saved to your device. Lifehacker has a post that describes what is really happening. "Incognito mode simply prevents your browsing history from being saved on your device and in your personal Google account. This includes searches, sites visited and cookies (though downloads and bookmarked sites will still show up). Basically, if others have access to your device or account, they won't be able to see what you did while in Incognito mode."

Incognito/private browsing doesn't stop the website from tracking your activity. The website is probably collecting information about your operating system, IP address and other data. If you want to be more anonymous while accessing the internet you should be using a browser that blocks ads and other tracking activity. As an example, I use the Brave browser to block that activity. You can also install an add-on to block activity too. You can use a VPN or the Tor browser too.

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