Does Incognito Mode Work? Understanding Google Incognito Mode

On Google Chrome, there is a feature called "Incognito Mode". Many users may use this feature to hide browsing history, stop cookies, or even stay hidden online. However, these same users do not fully understand how Incognito Mode works. Lets get into what Google's Incognito Mode does, and does not do.

What Is Incognito Mode?

Incognito mode is a feature in google that you can enable to have more private browsing. As seen in the image above, Google explains its ability and use. This mode allows users to easily prevent its users from storing data such as browsing history, cookies, passwords and other forms of entered or saved data locally on the users end.

How Does Incognito Mode Work?

When using Incognito Mode, Chrome:

• Does not save your browsing history.

• Deletes cookies and site data upon closing the incognito window.

• Prevents browser extensions from running unless explicitly enabled.

However, it does not:

• Hide your activity from your ISP.

• Conceal your browsing from websites you visit.

• Prevent tracking by network administrators (at workplaces or schools).

Common Myths About Incognito Mode

• Myth: Incognito Mode makes you completely anonymous.

• Reality: Websites, ISPs, and network administrators can still track your activities.

• Myth: Incognito Mode protects you from malware and viruses.

• Reality: It offers no additional protection against malicious downloads or phishing sites.

When Should You Use Incognito Mode?

Incognito Mode is useful for:

• Shared devices to prevent others from viewing your browsing history.

• Preventing personalization or cookie-based price hikes when online shopping.

• Temporarily logging into accounts without saving credentials.

Limitations of Incognito Mode

Despite its usefulness, Incognito Mode:

• Does not prevent online tracking or surveillance by external entities.

• Is ineffective against legal or workplace surveillance.

• Does not provide anonymity from website tracking.

How to Have Better Privacy Online

While Incognito Mode can help with local privacy, achieving better overall online privacy involves practicing good cyber hygiene. Here are some common activities that can link your online actions back to you:

• Creating user accounts

• Using your real name online

• Logging in or signing up with your personal email

• Associating your phone number with online accounts

• Browsing websites using your default IP address

Many online activities can be tracked, allowing websites to monitor your behavior and target you with personalized ads. To reduce this tracking:

• Avoid signing up for every new service you encounter.

• Only share your email or phone number when absolutely necessary.

• Use a VPN to limit IP tracking and prevent your Internet Service Provider (ISP) from monitoring your online activity.

• Use a private browser (some block ads, trackers or cookies)

Conclusion

Incognito Mode is a helpful privacy feature with clear limitations. Understanding these boundaries ensures you make informed decisions to protect your online privacy effectively.