La browsing in incognito it is often misunderstood as a total online privacy shield. But what does he really hide and what information remains exposed? In fact there are several myths that hover around this widely used and widespread modality. The problem is that not everyone knows how it works Truly. Here are the real capabilities of this feature on mobile and non-mobile browsers.
No, incognito mode does not completely mask our presence
The widely used incognito mode has created an aura of mystery and security around itself. But it is important to understand its real limitations. First, let's dispel a myth: incognito browsing it does not serve to mask your online identity from the servers to which we connect. His original purpose I say do not leave traces on the device in use, such as browsing history, cookies and data from websites visited, as well as not saving the information entered into forms.
But what happens to our online identity? In incognito mode, the IP address remains visible. This means that websites, employers or Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can still track your online activity. Incognito browsing does not encrypt your browsing data, nor does it protect against network monitoring by companies or schools.
So, while this mode offers a certain level of privacy on the device used, is not a complete solution for online anonymity. For a higher level of protection, it would be necessary to consider the use of a VPN or other digital security technologies.
What is it hiding? browsing in incognito
- hides history: leaves no traces of browsing history on the device, useful if you share the device with others;
- delete cookies and browsing data: cookies and data from websites visited are automatically deleted when the session is closed;
- does not save information in forms: information such as passwords and form filling details are not stored.
However, important aspects of your digital identity remain visible.
What incognito browsing doesn't hide
- visible IP address: Your IP address remains visible to websites, your employer and ISPs. This means that your online activity can be tracked;
- unencrypted browsing data: Incognito mode offers no data encryption, potentially leaving your online activities exposed on unsecured networks;
- network monitoring: Does not protect against monitoring of corporate or school networks.
It's crucial to understand that not all browsers handle incognito mode the same way. Each browser has its own policy (see Brave) regarding what is kept or deleted during an incognito session.
For example, some may decide to keep some types of cookies for the duration of the session, while others may delete them immediately. These differences can have a significant impact on what actually stays private and what doesn't. Therefore, it is always recommended read your browser's privacy specifications (which no one does, however) which is being used to get a clear picture of the situation.
How to protect privacy (almost) completely?
For those who are seriously concerned about their online privacy, there are more effective tools than simply browsing incognito. The use of VPN, or virtual private networks, is one such tool. A VPN can mask your IP address, making it more difficult for websites and Internet service providers to track your real location and online activities.
Furthermore, VPNs encrypt the data you send and receive, providing an extra layer of security, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, where data could be more easily intercepted. Although they are not a perfect solution and require some care when choosing a service provider, VPNs represent a significant step towards greater online security and privacy.
