In a recent update to Chrome’s Incognito mode, Google has made changes to the description following the settlement of a class-action lawsuit last year. The lawsuit, initiated in 2020, accused Google of infringing the privacy of millions of users by tracking their activity even when Incognito mode was activated. The updated description in the latest Chrome build, codenamed Canary, provides a more transparent view of what Incognito mode truly offers.
Previously, the text on an Incognito tab read: “Now you can browse privately, and other people who use this device won’t see your activity. However, downloads, bookmarks and reading list items will be saved.” The new version, found in a new Incognito session, now reads: “Others who use this device won’t see your activity, so you can browse more privately. This won’t change how data is collected by websites you visit and the services they use, including Google. Downloads, bookmarks and reading list items will be saved.”
The addition of “including Google” emphasizes the tracking aspect, making it even more explicit. Notably, the change from “browse privately” to “browse more privately” suggests a nuanced understanding of the limitations of Incognito mode. The bullet points listing what Chrome does and doesn’t track remain unchanged.
The update is part of a settlement that is awaiting public disclosure, scheduled to be presented to the court in late January and potentially approved by February. Google’s spokesperson, José Castañeda, expressed the company’s satisfaction in resolving the case, highlighting Chrome’s enhanced information provision about Incognito Mode.
While some users may have misconceptions about Incognito mode, considering it a private browser free from data-tracking, the reality is that it offers limited privacy, primarily concealing user activity from other users of the same device. Despite the changes, it’s crucial to be aware that Incognito mode does not shield users from the data-tracking practices of big tech companies. So, enjoy your next Incognito session, but always remember that scrutiny persists.
