Roman GłogulskiGoogle Chrome’s Incognito Mode, which many users believe provides complete anonymity, may not be as private as they think. Google has recently made changes to its warning message, aiming to clarify what users can expect from this feature.
When opening an incognito tab in Google Chrome, users will now see a warning that explicitly states their data is still being collected, even in Incognito Mode. This modification comes as a result of a recent legal dispute involving Google. Accused of illegally collecting user data while in Incognito Mode, Google faced claims that this privacy feature was being compromised.
Previously, Google acknowledged that Incognito Mode could collect user data. However, following the resolution of the legal battle and subsequent settlement, the tech giant is now required to provide users with clearer information about how Incognito Mode functions.
The revised warning message now reads as follows: “Other people using this device won’t see your activity, and you can browse more privately. However, this won’t change how websites and services, including Google, collect and store data. Downloads, bookmarks, and browsing history will still be saved.”
Previously, the message was less detailed: “Now you can browse privately, and other people who use this device won’t see your activity. However, downloads, bookmarks, and browsing history will be saved.”
While this change may seem minor, it is a crucial step toward ensuring transparency and setting the right expectations for users regarding the functionality of Incognito Mode.
