Private browsing is a privacy feature in some web browsers. When operating in such a mode, the browser creates a temporary session that is isolated from the browser’s main session and user data. Browsing history is not saved, and local data associated with the session, such as cookies, are cleared when the session is closed. These modes are designed primarily to prevent data and history associated with a particular browsing session from persisting on the device or being discovered by another user of the same device.
Private browsing modes do not necessarily protect users from being tracked by other websites or their Internet service provider (ISP). Furthermore, there is a possibility that identifiable traces of activity could be leaked from private browsing sessions by means of the operating system, security flaws in the browser, or via malicious browser extensions, and it has been found that certain HTML5 APIs can be used to detect the presence of private browsing modes due to differences in behavior.
Private browsing helps you obscure your online activity from other people who use Firefox on your computer but does not make you invisible online.
Private Browsing Doesn’t make You Anonymous On The Internet.
Private Browsing does not mask your identity or activity online. Websites can still gather information about your visit, even if you are not signed in, and so can internet service providers. If you use your device at work your company may be able to monitor the websites you visit. Or, if you surf the web at home, your cable company or their partners may have access to your browsing information.
Private Browsing Won’t Protect You From Keystroke Loggers And Spyware.
Private Browsing does not protect you from malware installed on your computer. If you suspect you have malware, take steps to remove it and prevent it from happening again.
Is A Private Browser Safe?
As with any other browsing session, the private mode may provide an added layer of safety if your device is fortified with an up-to-date security suite and runs the latest operating system. If not? Cyber snoops or hackers may be able to view your session history.
The bottom line is that going private does not provide protection against cyber criminals gaining access to online tracks you may leave behind. Always be sure to install and use robust security software on all of your devices before going online — private browsing or not.
Why Go Incognito While Browsing?
There are a lot of good reasons to go incognito while browsing online, including these:
- Using multiple email accounts. You can open a tab in private mode and log into multiple email accounts without the hassle of logging off from one account and logging into another.
- Using a shared computer or a computer that’s not yours. Sometimes you’re away from your own device and have to use a Mac, PC, or another device that does not belong to you. A private browser should prevent your passwords, search history, and browsing history from being saved on that device.
- Shopping for gifts. Birthdays, holidays, or any occasion — if you’re shopping for a gift for someone on your shared computer, make sure you go private. The last thing you want is an overenthusiastic browser sharing your gift ideas and spoiling your surprise.
- Researching “delicate” topics. Sometimes you might need to research topics that you’d rather not have to enter into that search box. Researchers, writers, college students, and others may need to search for terms that are outside their comfort zone. A private browser may save some embarrassment or help protect confidential medical information.
- Booking travel online. Whether you’re looking for cheap airfares or hotel bookings, a private browser may help. With web tracking disabled, airlines and hotels can’t learn too much about your need or desperation to get desired dates and bookings. This may prevent them from altering fares based on your search history.
