Introduction:
Remember that time you used Chrome’s “incognito” mode to browse something…private? Well, it turns out, your browsing might not have been as private as you thought. Google recently settled a massive $5 billion lawsuit over allegations that it tracked users even when they were in “incognito” mode. Let’s break down what happened and what it means for you.
What is the Lawsuit About?
A class-action lawsuit filed in 2020 accused Google of misleading users about the privacy of “incognito” mode. The plaintiffs claimed that even though Google tells users that “incognito” mode prevents their browsing history from being saved, the company still collects data like IP addresses and website visit information through other means, like Google Analytics and ad cookies.
Why is this a Big Deal?
Many people use “incognito” mode for privacy reasons, such as searching for sensitive topics or medical information. If Google was indeed tracking users in this mode, it would be a major violation of their privacy rights and trust.
What Did Google Do?
Google has denied any wrongdoing, but it agreed to settle the lawsuit for a whopping $5 billion. This is one of the largest privacy settlements in history and shows how seriously courts are taking data privacy concerns.
What Does this Mean for You?
While the settlement is a win for consumers, it doesn’t guarantee that your browsing is completely private. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- “Incognito” mode isn’t foolproof: While it can prevent your browsing history from being saved on your device, it doesn’t make you invisible to your internet service provider, websites you visit, or advertisers.
- Use privacy-focused tools: Consider using a privacy-focused browser or search engine, or using extensions that block trackers and cookies.
- Be mindful of what you share online: No matter what browsing mode you use, be careful about what information you share online, especially on sensitive topics.
The Takeaway:
The Google “incognito” mode lawsuit is a reminder that we need to be vigilant about protecting our online privacy. While companies like Google may promise privacy, it’s always important to be aware of the limitations and risks involved. By being informed and taking steps to protect yourself, you can help ensure that your online activity remains truly private.
Additional Resources:
- You can read more about the lawsuit here: https://goddammitlachoi.wordpress.com/2023/12/29/npr-news-google-settles-5-billion-privacy-lawsuit-over-tracking-people-using-incognito-mode/
- Here are some tips for protecting your online privacy: https://www.eff.org/wp/effs-top-12-ways-protect-your-online-privacy
