How secure are private browsing features? In 2005, the first private browsing feature became available, and it wasn’t until 2008 that any other browser other than Safari 2.0 offered it. When Google Chrome was released, “Incognito” mode became a favorite for Windows users who fancied the appeal of a private browsing experience (mainly to avoid being spied on) and other web browsers quickly followed by releasing a similar feature shortly afterward.
If you aren’t familiar with private browsing features, the idea is you can switch your browser into a mode that won’t save cookies so websites you visit aren’t saved in the browser’s history, and auto-fill won’t save anything you’ve typed. It also ensures searches won’t recommend any sites related to the content you view while in private browsing mode. The feature is ideal for those who share a computer with others and employees who have internet access at their workplace.
It certainly sounds like private browsing features offer a safer method of surfing the net overall, but just how secure are they?
One Major Flaw…
In terms of shared devices, private browsing features do prevent others from viewing information about your browsing habits. They are secure in this sense, as they will protect your privacy if anyone else uses your computer, smartphone or tablet, but there is one major and unfortunate flaw.
Even if you are surfing the net while in private browsing mode, websites, hackers and just about anyone else online can identify your IP address, thus linking you to certain activities. Perhaps you frequent a specific website and although this information won’t be available to whoever logs on to the device after you, it can be available to those on the web.
So how is this possible?
Your Identification Online
Your IP address clues others in on who you are and where you’re accessing the internet. As mentioned previously, IP addresses are not private so anyone with the know-how can view them. Websites always obtain them by default, and individuals can easily find them by using certain software and scripts.
Anything done online can be traced back to you using the IP address of the device you access the internet. Even if there are multiple users of the same device, it’s easy for the information to be traced because the activities could have only originated from so many individuals (and let’s face it; not many people share their internet-enabled devices with more than five people).
Luckily, there’s a way to mask your IP address, which will ultimately result in your private browsing experience being much more secure.
Masking IP Addresses for Anonymity
So how do you mask your IP address? With software of course! The best way to maintain your anonymity online is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service.
A VPN service allows you to connect to and route your internet traffic through a remote server. A lengthy list of different locations is available, so you can choose a server in a variety of countries and cities. Each remote server is encrypted, so your internet connection is secured when you’re connected, and your IP address is masked.
The server’s IP address is displayed in place of your own, and it’s unlikely for your activities to be traced back to you because of the number of people on the same server. An additional bonus is you can unblock geo-restricted content by masking your IP address to appear as though you’re in a different location.
Most VPNs cost under $14 per month, and some include a money-back guarantee, so you can try them before fully committing. I consider ExpressVPN to be the best VPN service for beginners, but I encourage you to explore some of the different options since there are many that are worthwhile.
Cyberattack Immunity?
It’s important to know that even though a VPN service will help you maintain a more private browsing experience overall, you certainly won’t be immune to cyberattacks. For example, even if you’re using a private browsing feature and a VPN, you won’t be protected from malware on websites. Don’t forget to watch out for some of the basic threats online regardless of the software or the browsing features you’re using to maintain your privacy.
Pay close attention to subtle spelling errors in emails, website URLs and posts on social media. It could dissuade you from clicking on a malicious link. Some websites can unfortunately inject malware on your device that frequently displays embarrassing pop-up ads, and that’s something private browsing features can’t prevent!
How secure did you think private browsing features were? Has this article changed your opinion of them? Will you continue to use them if you do so already? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
About the Author: Caroline is a writer for SecureThoughts.com and an advocate for online safety. Much of her work involves sharing tips and tricks to avoid common cybersecurity mistakes in an effort to create a more private browsing experience for internet users both new and old.
