Private browsing isn’t that private
Dr. Martin Shelton
January 4, 2024
Screenshot: Incognito mode in Google’s Chrome browser.
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Google agreed in late December to settle a $5 billion class action lawsuit filed in 2020, alleging the company collected browsing data on users when using Google Chrome’s “incognito” private browsing mode, including via Google services embedded in third-party websites such as Google Analytics and Ad Manager. The company’s lawyers argue, "Google also makes clear that 'Incognito' does not mean 'invisible,' and that the user's activity during that session may be visible to websites they visit, and any third-party analytics or ads services the visited websites use.” The limitations of Incognito are indeed stated prominently on its landing page, including the possibility that the websites you visit will still be able to track you when using private browsing mode. It’s a reminder to understand the limitations of private browsing mode. Read more here.
Our team is always ready to assist journalists with digital security concerns. Reach out here, and stay safe and secure out there.
Best,
Martin