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Google Chrome Incognito Mode Can Still Be Detected (bleepingcomputer.com)

440 points by nradov · 2625 days ago · 193 comments on HN

Article summary

The article discusses how Google Chrome's Incognito Mode can still be detected by websites, despite efforts to prevent this. The detection methods are not specified in the article, but commenters suggest that Chrome's in-memory storage solution can be identified. Commenters also propose workarounds, such as using Firefox's Container Tabs or disabling JavaScript on certain sites. The issue raises questions about the effectiveness of Incognito Mode and the cat-and-mouse game between browser developers and websites seeking to detect and block it.

Main themes

  • Incognito Mode detection
  • Browser privacy
  • Website workarounds
  • Cat-and-mouse game
  • Browser development

What commenters say

  • Chrome's in-memory storage solution for Incognito Mode is flawed and can be easily detected by websites.
  • Websites should not be able to detect Incognito Mode, as it undermines user privacy and the purpose of the feature.
  • The cat-and-mouse game between browser developers and websites is ongoing, with each side trying to outmaneuver the other.
  • Incognito Mode is not intended to hide browsing activity from websites, but rather to prevent local storage of browsing history and data.
  • Browser developers should focus on improving privacy and security features, rather than trying to evade website detection methods.
  • The use of JavaScript and other techniques by websites to detect Incognito Mode is a legitimate concern for users who value their privacy.
  • Some commenters believe that the detection of Incognito Mode is not a significant issue, as it is primarily used to bypass paywalls and access restricted content.
  • Others argue that the ability to detect Incognito Mode has implications for scrapers and indexing engines, which may be able to access paywalled content in ways that ordinary users cannot.