For years, the most popular internet browsers have included options to search for and visit websites in "private" modes. Those options may now be viewed as vital tools for some in the wake of Roe v. Wade's demise, as abortion-seekers look to avoid having their personal data used against them in states where abortion is criminalized.
"We have to recognize that oftentimes simply toggling on a private mode does very little to prevent third-party tracking and especially law enforcement tracking," said Albert Fox Cahn, founder and executive director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project and a fellow at the New York University School of Law.
Usually when a person browses online, companies will use tracking devices known as cookies to keep up with digital activity from one site to the next for better targeted advertising. Depending on the browser and user choices, private browsing mode can reduce that cross-site information sharing. But with some browsers, users must know to select these additional options, beyond simply opting for private mode.
"Whether you're in privacy mode or not, your IP address always has to be known by the recipient because when your browser sends the request to get data, the server that's receiving the request needs to know where to send that data back to," said Andrew Reifers, associate teaching professor at the University of Washington Information School. An internet service provider can also record a user's online activity regardless of their browser privacy setting.
Google Chrome also warns users that Incognito Mode cannot offer total protection in these cases. "When in Incognito Mode, your activity might still be visible to websites you visit, your employer or school, or your internet service provider. We make this clear when opening Incognito Mode," said Tabriz.
No, all private browsing does is essentially disconnect your personal account tracking, some cookies, and browser history. Want protection? Use a computer not connected to any accounts, and a VPN to boot.
So let’s create laws preventing government and corporate reach into our online worlds and levy heavy fines with payout to person victimized.
Justine is watching people who say bad things about him!!
Especially when the Canadian government illegally tracks your phones gps
I don't to it for protection...just for things like seeing tweets by people who blocked me or who I blocked. 😂😂
More fear porn!