Each Internet browser offers a mode for so-called private browsing. This is usually perceived as “anonymous browsing”, but in fact, it is far from the case. These modes significantly reduce data collection, but cannot erase everything.
Browser privacy modes do not usually collect the history of sites visited by the user. They also do not permanently store cookies. By default, it sends a request to sites and search engines not to track the user, but whether this will happen depends on them.
In general, private browsing mode means that any visit to a site through it will be treated first. This mode creates a separate browser session that is completely independent of the main one. Stored passwords and accounts cannot be used. They can only be accessed if the user enters the data manually.
However, the sites themselves can continue to maintain user activity and analyze it. The information is also traceable for the suppliers. In short, private browsing modes are most useful from a user’s point of view to reduce the likelihood of being tracked when physically accessing a computer.
If the device is compromised by a virus, for example, which records typing on the keyboard and/or user activity in general, the confidential mode will again not be a protection. It also doesn’t mean that it will make browsing anonymous when using a public WiFi network, for example.
However, the feature will reduce tracking to some extent and make it a little harder to create a permanent archive, as long as you don’t log in to site accounts. In practice, the benefits are minimal, for example, if a person wants to hide that he has visited several online stores in search of a gift for a partner who also uses the computer.
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