Current:Home > StocksGoogle warns users Chrome's incognito mode still tracks data, reports say. What to know. -Summit Capital Strategies
Google warns users Chrome's incognito mode still tracks data, reports say. What to know.
View
Date:2025-04-15 07:57:59
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! (9726)
Related
- Tarte Shape Tape Concealer Sells Once Every 4 Seconds: Get 50% Off Before It's Gone
- The Bachelorette's Andi Dorfman Marries Blaine Hart in Italy
- 15 Summer Athleisure Looks & Accessories So Cute, You’ll Actually Want To Work Out
- The hospital bills didn't find her, but a lawsuit did — plus interest
- Skins Game to make return to Thanksgiving week with a modern look
- That ’70s Show Alum Danny Masterson Found Guilty of Rape
- National Governments Are Failing on Clean Energy in All but 3 Areas, IEA says
- Renewable Energy Groups Push Back Against Rick Perry’s Controversial Grid Study
- A White House order claims to end 'censorship.' What does that mean?
- Lawmaker pushes bill to shed light on wrongfully detained designation for Americans held abroad
Ranking
- Chuck Scarborough signs off: Hoda Kotb, Al Roker tribute legendary New York anchor
- Trump Rolled Back 100+ Environmental Rules. Biden May Focus on Undoing Five of the Biggest Ones
- Katharine McPhee's Smashing New Haircut Will Inspire Your Summer 'Do
- Environmental Refugees and the Definitions of Justice
- A White House order claims to end 'censorship.' What does that mean?
- And Just Like That’s Season 2 Trailer Shows Carrie Bradshaw Reunite with an Old Flame
- Biden promises internet for all by 2030
- The Bachelorette: Meet the 25 Men Vying for Charity Lawson's Heart
Recommendation
Who are the most valuable sports franchises? Forbes releases new list of top 50 teams
Was a Federal Scientist’s Dismissal an 11th-hour Bid to Give Climate Denial Long-Term Legitimacy?
Religion Emerges as an Influential Force for Climate Action: It’s a Moral Issue
Turning Food Into Fuel While Families Go Hungry
Paula Abdul settles lawsuit with former 'So You Think You Can Dance' co
Virginia Moves to Regulate Power Plants’ Carbon Pollution, Defying Trump
16 Game-Winning Ted Lasso Gift Ideas That Will Add Positivity to Your Life
American Climate Video: A Pastor Taught His Church to See a Blessing in the Devastation of Hurricane Michael