Google Chrome has recently made changes to its Incognito Mode, the feature that promises users a private browsing experience. When opening the built-in Incognito Mode, users are now greeted with an updated warning message. This warning aims to inform users that while their activity may not be visible to others using the same device, websites still have the ability to collect user data.
The previous message displayed when opening Incognito Mode on the stable channel stated, “Now you can browse privately, and other people who use this device won’t see your activity. However, downloads, bookmarks, and reading list items will be saved.” However, the new message, found in Google Chrome Canary 122.0.6251.0, now reads as follows: “Others who use this device won’t see your activity, so you can browse more privately. This won’t change how data is collected by websites you visit and the services they use, including Google. Downloads, bookmarks, and reading list items will be saved.”
The updated warning in Google Chrome’s Incognito Mode makes it crystal clear: websites can still track and collect data on your browsing activity, even if you’re in private mode. Despite the promise of browsing privately, users need to be aware that their online actions are not completely concealed.
While the warning highlights that other users on the same device won’t be able to see your activity, it also mentions that downloads, bookmarks, and reading list items will be saved. This means that some data will still be retained locally on the device, potentially leaving behind traces of your browsing history. It’s essential to remember that this data could be accessed by individuals with direct access to the device.
Moreover, the warning fails to address the visibility of personal information to third parties. According to the screenshot shared by MSPowerUser, the updated warning does not mention any changes in this aspect, indicating that websites can still collect and utilize your personal information.
A Lawsuit and Settlement
The recent changes to Google Chrome’s Incognito Mode come after the company faced a lawsuit in 2020. The class action lawsuit accused Google of tracking, collecting, and identifying users’ browsing data in real time, even when they had enabled Incognito Mode. In an attempt to settle the lawsuit, Google reportedly expressed its readiness to reach an agreement. The settlement is expected to be presented at the end of the month, with approval potentially granted in February.
Google’s update to the warning message in Chrome’s Incognito Mode serves as a reminder that true online privacy remains elusive. While the feature may provide some level of anonymity from other users sharing the same device, it does not prevent websites from gathering information about your browsing habits.
Users must approach Incognito Mode with caution and understand its limitations. It’s crucial to remember that additional measures, such as VPNs and browser extensions, may be necessary to ensure a higher level of privacy and security online. Ultimately, relying solely on Google Chrome’s Incognito Mode may give users a false sense of privacy, as websites continue to collect valuable data in the background.
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