So, how does anonymous web surfing fit into the mix? Most of us just use one of the “big three” search engines like Google, Bing or Yahoo! without really thinking much about it. But you also have the option of using a private (“no tracking”) search engine for extra anonymity, like DuckDuckGo, for example, and others that are gaining in popularity.
Here, we’ll go beyond the mainstream and take a broad look at the benefits of private search, including what it can do, what it can’t do, and how it’s different from standard search engines.
Why use a private search engine?
Using a private search engine helps keep your information out of the hands of companies that mine your data, sell it for profit, inundate you with ads, and get way too up-close and personal. For example, if you’ve ever grabbed your laptop and started searching for a new car, suddenly you’re inundated with car ads for days, even weeks! And the ads aren’t only on your laptop—they seem to pop up on all your connected devices. That’s because regular search engines (with no restrictions in place) will automatically track things like:
- Your IP address and device-specific identifiers
- Browsing history: All the websites you've visited
- Cookies: Data that websites store on your computer for tracking and personalization purposes
- Cache: Temporary files stored on your computer to speed up website loading times
- Autofill data: Information like usernames, passwords, and form data that you've entered into websites
- Saved passwords: Credentials saved for automatic login to websites
- Extensions and plugins: Other software that may have access to your browsing data
Aren’t privacy settings and incognito mode enough?
Sure, you can manually change your settings, delete cookies, history and such in order to get a more private internet connection. You can even take the extra step of using privacy windows on Safari, or incognito mode on Chrome, which adds some extra privacy. But if you still happen to be logged into any of your accounts, like Yahoo! Mail, for example, your activity data is still out there. Also, privacy/incognito mode doesn’t stop your IP address from being tracked, making you vulnerable to hackers and other bad actors standing ready to pounce the first time you let your guard down.
Do private search engines offer total anonymity?
No, there’s no such thing as 100% anonymous web surfing. After all, your internet service provider (ISP), network administrator, and the websites you visit can still see your activity. Additionally, private search doesn't prevent websites from collecting data about you; it just prevents the browser from storing that data locally. But it still offers an extra layer of security and protection beyond standard search.
While nothing is entirely foolproof, private search may be one more tool in the toolbox as you navigate the wild world of privacy and online safety.
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Sources:
https://gs.statcounter.com/search-engine-market-share/all/united-states-of-america
https://nordvpn.com/blog/best-privacy-browser/
https://www.cyberghostvpn.com/en_US/privacyhub/does-incognito-hide-ip/
https://www.pcmag.com/picks/stop-trackers-dead-the-best-private-browsers