Using incognito mode when browsing the internet may not do exactly what it says on the tin.
If you are using the internet, and you don't fancy anyone finding out about it, you've likely used incognito mode.
Whether that be searching for a birthday present for your significant other, or visiting some sites you probably shouldn't be visiting, incognito mode on web browsers is a useful tool.
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I think a lot of us use it in the knowledge our internet browsing is completely private, but that's not exactly the case.
In fact, the reality of the situation is very different to what many people use incognito mode for.
If you've ever read the small print when you open up that darkened window, you'll notice a message on the likes of Google Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.
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It tells you that internet providers, website operators, and data collectors can still see what you're up to despite being in incognito mode.
For example, if you were to visit LADbible for the latest viral trends while using incognito mode, your history would be made private from anyone using that device.
However, it wouldn't keep you private from the wider world.
That's because analytics would record your on-site activity, even if the device you are using isn't.
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Despite it being all there in the small print, a 2018 study found that as high as 40 percent believe their location is secure when in incognito mode.
And 22 percent believe the government or their internet company can't track what they're doing while behind the darkened window's protection.
So, what exactly does incognito mode do?
Well, in reality, all it really does is delete your browsing history and cookies immediately after you close the window.
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Funnily enough, something you can easily do yourself after you've done whatever it is that you're using the web for.
And in incognito mode, you can still be tracked via your IP address.
Vice reports alongside this is 'browser fingerprints', which are bits of information provided by your computer to make websites display properly, you are not as private as you may think.
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Under GDPR rules, the internet providers can hang onto data for as long as 'strictly necessary' before it is discarded.
They've got to justify why they are keeping it though, something which allows the government and police to obtain it should they request.
So, while incognito mode offers you privacy protection from anyone else who may be using your device, keep in mind some people may see what you've been up to.
You've been warned.
Topics: Technology
Callum Jones