Google Chrome, the most popular browser today, has multiple features to deliver a safe, private experience. It lets you browse in Incognito Mode, which offers you privacy, especially on a shared computer.
The term refers to concealing one’s identity, and this mode helps you do precisely that — at least in some form.
While in this mode, the browser does not save your information, like browsing data, history, cookies, and user-entered information in forms. Instead, it starts a new session. Your activity does not appear in your browsing history. You are also not logged in to any accounts.
This private mode can benefit users working on shared devices — imagine you want to buy your spouse tickets to her favorite concert, but it must be a surprise!
So, how can you browse in the Incognito Mode on different devices?
Browse More Privately* on a Laptop
Go to “New Incognito Window” at the top right corner under “More.” It will open a fresh window with the Incognito icon. You can then begin browsing securely.
Most laptops also have a keyboard shortcut to start an Incognito window.
Press Ctrl + Shift + N on Windows, Linux, and Chrome OS. The shortcut changes slightly on Mac (Command + Shift + N).
*The “more privately” draws from a new disclaimer on Chrome’s Incognito mode, which is yet to become a stable build.
Browse More Privately on an Android Phone
The process is similar: you must start a new Incognito tab under “More.” Android phones (Android 11 and higher) may also let you lock private tabs to enhance security. You can do this from Settings > Privacy > Lock Incognito tabs.
Note that Incognito Mode cannot protect you from phishing or malware. You can still visit potentially dangerous websites, so exercising caution is paramount.
Browse More Securely on an iPad or an iPhone
Google Chrome permits private browsing on iPads and iPhones. You may start a new Incognito tab from “More” in your browser window.
Usually, an iPhone has these settings in the bottom right, while iPads feature them at the top right. Like Android phones, Apple devices also provide the option to lock private tabs upon leaving Chrome.
Another helpful feature is accessing links from other applications in an incognito tab.
This setting is available in Privacy and Security > “Ask to Open Links from Other Apps in Incognito.“ You can also directly open a link in private mode by choosing “Open in Chrome Incognito.”
What are the other advantages of Incognito browsing besides privacy?
The advantages are multiple: having websites treat you as a new user means they cannot serve you ads based on your interests. It can be a blessing if you find targeted advertising intrusive.
Some users also switch to private browsing when looking for airline tickets or other offers. It can prevent providers from hiking up prices based on browsing activity.
While Chrome’s private mode has advantages for shared devices, it won’t do anything to hide your activity from an employer or admin. You can look at a VPN service or use an ad-blocker to achieve higher privacy.
Can you switch between incognito and regular browsing on Chrome?
Google Chrome allows you to switch between the two modes. Your browsing will be private only in the Incognito window and not when you switch to a regular tab or window.
How can you exit from Incognito Mode?
Chrome allows multiple Incognito windows at the same time. So, if you wish to exit completely, you should close all the open windows by pressing “X” or “Close.”
Are incognito and guest mode different?
The guest mode aims to let you work on a computer you don’t control, hiding information about the primary profile and also wiping off data about your activity. But the incognito mode intends to be an additional experience for the primary users: the browser knows you; it just doesn’t save activity for that session.
Troubleshooting Incognito Mode in Google Chrome
The Incognito Mode is unavailable
The prime reason Incognito Mode may not work is that the administrator has blocked it at an organizational level. While attempting to open a new private tab on an Android phone, you might get an error message stating that your organization or app does not allow you to take screenshots. In this case, you must access the webpage in a standard, non-private tab.
The mode does not extend complete privacy
Although Incognito Mode is private and secure, it is not foolproof, i.e., it does not insulate you from all prying eyes. Your ISP, organization, the government, etc., can still view your information.
Moreover, if you sign in to an account in Incognito mode, the website can identify you and track further activity.
It is best to proceed carefully and not see this private browsing mode as a be-all-and-end-all of confidential internet activity.
You can consider clearing browsing data periodically to stay secure and keep your information confidential.
This option is available under More > Clear browsing data for a chosen time range, like the previous 24 hours.
You can erase browsing history, cookies, cache, auto-filled form information, etc. However, you may need to perform additional steps to delete data saved to your Google account or under extensions.