Does Private Browsing Really Keep You Private?

Short answer: Private browsing hides your history from other people on the same device. It does not hide you from your provider or the sites you visit.

Incognito and private windows are useful but often misunderstood.

What it does

It does not save your history, cookies or form entries after you close the window. That helps on a shared computer or family tablet.

What it does not do

Your internet provider, a work or school network and the website itself can still see activity. Downloaded files and bookmarks also stay.

Better habits

Use your own device, lock your screen, keep your browser updated and sign out when you finish. Avoid shared or work devices altogether.

Notifications and autofill

Turn off browser notifications for sites you do not want popping up later, and clear saved suggestions you do not want others to see.

Go deeper

The EFF's Surveillance Self-Defense guide explains threat models in plain language.

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Further reading: FTC: romance scams, EFF Surveillance Self-Defense. See also our safety guide and FAQ.