Incognito mode, private browsing is a browser mode that temporarily gives a “new” device (computer, smartphone, tablet) without browsing history. Conversely, the history of an incognito window is erased as soon as the window is closed. Many people use incognito mode to avoid saving their search and browsing history. However, it is important to note that even if your history is not saved in the browser, unauthorized persons can still see it.
What can incognito mode do?
- Does not allow the browser to save browsing history and search queries.
When you activate incognito mode, the websites you visit are not saved in your browser history. However, third parties (such as your office or internet service provider) can still see the websites you visit and the searches you make while you are in incognito mode. Incognito mode is useful when you don’t want your browsing or search history to be readable by others who have physical access to your computer or phone.
- Deletes cookies and site data
When you close incognito mode after browsing and searching the Internet, cookies and site data are deleted. When you return to the site you visited while in incognito mode, the site will not recognize you as a returning visitor.
- Logs out of accounts
If you sign in to one of your accounts while in incognito mode or fill out an online form, all of that information will not be saved when you close your browser window. This makes incognito mode extremely useful when you are borrowing someone else’s computer or using a shared computer, such as at the library or at work.
What is incognito mode not capable of?
- Does not hide the location
If you don’t use a virtual private network(VPN) to hide your IP address, anyone can track your location, including websites, attackers, and other unauthorized parties. Incognito mode does not matter when it comes to your location.
- Does not mask the IP address
Incognito mode in no way prevents websites or cybercriminals from seeing your IP address, so even when enabled, anyone can see your IP address if they want to.
- Does not protect against cyber attacks
With incognito mode enabled, the likelihood that attackers will try to hack your accounts or steal confidential information is no less than with it disabled.
- Does not hide your actions from third parties
Third parties can still easily see what you do in their browsers. For example, if you log in to Facebook from the incognito tab, your ISP will know that you have done so, and Facebook will still have access to some of your data.
How to use incognito mode in different browsers
Google Chrome
- Open Chrome on your Android phone or tablet.
- To the right of the address bar, click the “More” icon > New incognito tab.
- A new window opens. The Incognito mode icon appears in the upper left corner.
Shutdown
- Open Chrome on your Android phone or tablet.
- Click the Switch tabs icon in the upper right corner of the screen. On the right, you will see the incognito tabs open.
- Tap the Close icon in the upper-right corner of each one.
Microsoft Edge
A desktop computer:
- Open the Microsoft Edge website.
- Click on the three horizontal dots in the upper right corner.
- Choose New InPrivate Window from the menu.
- You can also use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+N (Windows) or Command+Shift+N (Mac).
How to turn off InPrivate mode:
- Close the InPrivate window by clicking the “X” in the upper corner.
- To close the window, use the keyboard shortcut Alt+F4 (Windows) or Command+W (Mac).
Mobile:
How to open InPrivate mode:
- Open the Microsoft Edge app.
- Tap the three horizontal dots at the bottom of the screen.
- Select New InPrivate tab from the menu.
- How to turn off InPrivate mode:
- Close the InPrivate tab by clicking the square icon with the number of open tabs, then swipe the InPrivate tab.
Apple Safari
Turning on
- Open Safari.
- Click File in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
- Select New private window.
- You can also use the keyboard shortcut Command+Shift+N (Mac).
How to turn off private browsing mode:
- Close the private window by clicking on the red dot in the upper left corner.
- Use the keyboard shortcut Command+W to close the window.
So, incognito mode is generally safe to use, but it is important to understand that it will not protect you from cyber threats and online fraud.