Lifewire. Why Incognito mode isn't as private as you think, and what you can do about it

Incognito mode in Google Chrome has long been seen as the go-to solution for private web browsing. But recent revelations have left many wondering just how private this mode truly is.

A recent Lifewire article dove into the concerns surrounding Incognito mode, and shed light on its limitations. Virtual CTO and founder of 555vCTO.com Vaclav Vincalek highlighted ways to protect your online privacy.

Google Chrome's Incognito mode isn’t as private as you think

It's no secret that Google Chrome's Incognito mode is not as private as many users believe it to be. Even though it promises anonymous browsing, it leaves behind a digital trail of your data. 

“For those who prefer to go 'Incognito,' it would be best to not sign into any personal accounts, and use a VPN to hide your IP address,” says Vaclav Vincalek, Virtual CTO of leading tech advisors at 555vCTO.com.

You can also install browser extensions that block tracking technology and ad servers to enhance your privacy.

"There's no law that says you can't install multiple extensions to keep your browsing as private as possible," he added.

It's clear that Incognito mode has limitations of which users should be aware.

What you need to know about Incognito mode limitations

When you use Incognito mode, Google can still track your searches within Google search. It can monitor your clicks on search suggestions and your navigation to URLs. Each website you visit in Incognito mode can track you because it doesn't hide your home IP address from the services you access.

Even your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can resolve your DNS requests while you're in Incognito mode, meaning they can track every URL you visit and store your web history. This data could potentially be shared with third parties.

So really, the primary benefit of Incognito mode is to prevent persistent cookies from accumulating on your device, which are erased when you close an Incognito session. 

How to more safely browse in Incognito mode

If you're concerned about the limitations of Google Chrome's Incognito mode, there are better ways to maintain your online privacy.

One way is using the Firefox browser. It's the only mainstream open-source browser, giving users greater control over their information. Firefox's private browsing mode includes multiple protective features, including tracking, malware and phishing protection, pop-up blocking, and anti-fingerprinting protection.

For enhanced privacy, consider using ad blocker software to prevent tracking scripts from tracing your online activities. And if you opt for a VPN, make sure to select one with a no-logging policy, like Mullvad or Private VPN.

The main idea to keep in mind is that Incognito mode isn’t so ‘Incognito’, but there are ways to stay much safer when browsing.

555 vCTO helps you assess the safety of your tech stack

At 555vCTO, we integrate technology into your company with privacy in mind. Our comprehensive services include a full audit of your tech stack.

Work with our elite group of CTOs to determine if your software is open to potential attacks. We can safely secure any vulnerabilities. Connect with us to see how we can fine-tune your information integration to safeguard your online presence.