Current:Home > InvestGoogle warns users Chrome's incognito mode still tracks data, reports say. What to know. -Secure Growth Academy
Google warns users Chrome's incognito mode still tracks data, reports say. What to know.
View
Date:2025-04-13 06:57:36
Google Chrome has reportedly updated the message that users see when they're in "incognito mode" following the settlement of a $5 billion privacy lawsuit.
Google added a disclaimer that the privacy function still collects user data that websites and services can access, according to the Verge, which said MSPowerUser first spotted the change.
The new message is only visible on the latest version of Google Chrome, the Verge reported. The previous message is still visible for some Chrome users.
Parts of the disclaimer remain untouched like the bullet points that clarifies that websites, employers, schools and internet service providers can view activity. The page also states that browsing history, cookies, site data and information entered in forms are not saved in incognito mode.
Reports:Blood-oxygen sensors to be removed from Apple Watches as company looks to avoid ban
Original and updated incognito mode messages comparison
The previous message reads: "Now you can browse privately, and other people who use this device won’t see your activity. However, downloads, bookmarks and reading list items will be saved. Learn more."
According to the Verge, the new message reads: "Others who use this device won’t see your activity, so you can browse more privately. This won’t change how data is collected by websites you visit and the services they use, including Google. Downloads, bookmarks and reading list items will be saved. Learn more.”
The previous message also gave users the option to block third-party cookies that primarily prevents sites from tracking internet activity.
Lawsuit alleged Google spied on users
The update comes after the company agreed on Dec. 28 to settle a $5 billion class-action lawsuit alleging the platform used private browsers to track internet use, according to the Associated Press.
The privacy lawsuit filed in 2020 alleged that Google misled users into thinking their internet activities would be off limits to the company. Plaintiffs also claimed that the company used advertising technologies to catalog their site visits and used an "unaccountable trove of information" under the false perception of privacy.
The settlement still requires approval by a federal judge and AP reported that the final settlement agreement will be presented in court by Feb. 24.
"We’re pleased to resolve this case, which we’ve long disputed, and will provide even more information to users about Incognito Mode," Google spokesperson José Castañeda said in a statement. "Incognito mode in Chrome will continue to give people the choice to browse the internet without their activity being saved to their browser or device."
Google did not respond to USA TODAY's questions about the updated incognito mode disclaimer.
veryGood! (7589)
Related
- In ‘Nickel Boys,’ striving for a new way to see
- Roots Actor John Amos’ Cause of Death Revealed
- Luke Bryan Explains Why Beyoncé Was Snubbed at 2024 CMA Awards
- Dunkin' announces Halloween menu which includes Munchkins Bucket, other seasonal offerings
- 'Survivor' 47 finale, part one recap: 2 players were sent home. Who's left in the game?
- Meet the Sexy (and Shirtless) Hosts of E!'s Steamy New Digital Series Hot Goss
- ‘Pure Greed’: A Legal System That Gives Corporations Special Rights Has Come for Honduras
- A 6-year-old girl was kidnapped in Arkansas in 1995. Police just named their prime suspect
- 'Kraven the Hunter' spoilers! Let's dig into that twisty ending, supervillain reveal
- Animal welfare advocates will plead with Texas lawmakers to help cities control stray pet population
Ranking
- South Korean president's party divided over defiant martial law speech
- Opinion: College Football Playoff will be glorious – so long as Big Ten, SEC don't rig it
- 1000-Lb. Sisters’ Amy Slaton Breaks Down in Tears Over Michael Halterman Split
- After Helene, a small North Carolina town starts recovery, one shovel of mud at a time
- See you latte: Starbucks plans to cut 30% of its menu
- SNAP benefits, age requirements rise in last echo of debt ceiling fight. What it means.
- How Lady Gaga and Michael Polansky’s Romance Was Born
- 'A Different Man' review: Sebastian Stan stuns in darkly funny take on identity
Recommendation
Global Warming Set the Stage for Los Angeles Fires
Amazon Prime Big Deal Days 2024: What to know about the sales event and preview of deals
Off the Grid: Sally breaks down USA TODAY's daily crossword puzzle, Middle Management
CGI babies? What we know about new 'Rugrats' movie adaptation
Federal Spending Freeze Could Have Widespread Impact on Environment, Emergency Management
Will gas prices, supplies be affected by the port strike? What experts say
Do you qualify for spousal Social Security benefits? Here's how to find out.
Dunkin' announces Halloween menu which includes Munchkins Bucket, other seasonal offerings