Updates to Incognito mode

Incognito mode lets you browse without saving your history, cookies or any other temporary data. It might surprise you to know that is wasn’t ever entirely private though.

Until recently if you copied something from an incognito tab such as text or a web address, Windows could still save it in your clipboard and even sync this to other devices. Making incognito mode not…well incognito.

Microsoft however, have now stepped in quietly to fix this loophole making incognito mode private again. Now, when you open an incognito tab in chrome (InPrivate mode in edge), your browser will no longer save:

• Your browsing history (so nobody else that uses your device can see what websites you have visited)
• Cookies and site data (so websites won’t remember you after you close the tab)
• Form data (so your browser will not autofill your details next time

These can be surprisingly useful. For example:

• Checking flight costs or hotel bookings without tracking cookies causing prices to go up.
• Logging in to multiple accounts without having to sign out again
• Using a shared computer without leaving a trail (this is useful for gifts, surprises etc.)

Let’s say that you are copying confidential business information or a personal message whilst in Incognito mode. Previously Windows would have automatically saved this to the clipboard meaning that anyone using the device after you would be able to see what you had copied. This is made worse if you had Cloud Clipboard enabled as this would have synced this information across your devices.

Now however your activity actually does disappear when you close the tab whether that be Edge or Chrome. Furthermore, Microsoft have also made another small improvement, media previews are now hidden when using incognito mode. Normally when you play a YouTube video or a Podcast, Windows will show you a preview of what is playing on the lock screen or whenever you adjust the volume. This will now no longer be the case when you are watching something in incognito mode. It will now only say ‘ A site is playing media’. This means that if you are watching or listening to something you need to keep private, nobody else will be able to see what it is you are watching and or listening to.

Using incognito mode in your business is now a lot safer and you are getting better protection than before. However, it is worth remembering that though Incognito mode is great for local privacy, it doesn’t stop your internet provider or work networks being able to see your activity. It also doesn’t protect you from cybercriminals or make you completely anonymous online.

If you would like any help or advice in making sure that your business data stays private and that your business is secure, get in touch with us today.

Here is our previous blog article about making healthy password habits to keep your business safe!