Acknowledging a potential data collection loophole, Google has revised its stance on Chrome's Incognito mode. This adjustment to the disclaimer follows the resolution of a lawsuit that accused the company of tracking users even in Incognito mode.
Google has issued the users to immediately update their Chrome browser because the hackers have already exploited the zero-day vulnerability.
Modifying Incognito Disclaimer
Upon initiating an Incognito browser session on Chrome, users receive a notification that assures them of privacy from others using the same device, while downloads, bookmarks, and reading items remain stored.
Google recently modified this disclaimer in Chrome's experimental Canary channel, following the company's agreement to settle a $5 billion lawsuit related to Incognito user tracking. The update explicitly mentions that Incognito mode doesn't impact how websites collect user data.
The adjusted disclaimer now conveys that despite others on the same device being unable to view your activity, the browsing mode doesn't alter data collection practices by the websites you visit, including Google's services.
The revised notification has been identified in Canary on Android and Windows, and the same language is confirmed in the Mac version of Chrome. It is pertinent for users to recognize that despite Google's adjustments, Incognito mode does not provide absolute anonymity.
Websites, including Google, retain the capacity to gather data and monitor user activities. While Incognito mode features default settings for preventing third-party cookie tracking, users should be aware that these measures offer only partial protection for online activities.
Reaching an Agreement
Google has reached an agreement to resolve a class-action lawsuit filed in 2020, which accused the tech giant of gathering user data even when individuals thought they were in Chrome's private Incognito mode.
MS PowerUser reported that the lawsuit alleged that Google tracked details such as browsing history, device data, and IP addresses during supposedly private sessions.
Initially, Google attempted to dismiss the lawsuit, asserting that its warning about websites having the ability to track activity in Incognito mode implied user consent to some data collection.
However, a judge disagreed, noting that Google did not explicitly inform users about its ongoing data collection practices.
The legal action sought a minimum of $5 billion in damages, as reported by Reuters. While the precise terms of the settlement remain undisclosed, attorneys involved have confirmed a resolution through mediation.
A formal settlement is expected to be presented for court approval by February 24, 2024.
Read also: Google's Incognito Mode: How to NOT Allow Websites Track Search History; How Vivaldi Browser Works
It's important to recognize that while using Incognito mode prevents Google Chrome from retaining your browsing history, it does not shield your activity from being tracked by websites or your internet service provider.
This case underscores the need for greater transparency in data collection practices, particularly by tech giants like Google. Clear communication about the collection of user data, especially in sensitive features like Incognito mode, is imperative.
For enhanced privacy during online activities, individuals may consider utilizing virtual private networks (VPNs) or dedicated privacy browsers.
