Incognito is useful when you do not want your browser to save visited pages on your device. For example, you may be looking for a gift on a shared computer. But Incognito does not make you invisible online.
What Incognito hides
After you close every Incognito window, the browser does not keep the list of pages you visited or temporary website data from that session.
This is useful on a shared computer. The next person will not find those pages in the browser's normal history.
What remains visible
Incognito does not erase everything you do:
- downloaded files stay in the downloads folder;
- saved bookmarks remain in the browser;
- a shop sees your order if you sign in to your account;
- your internet provider or network operator may still receive information about the connection.
Incognito does not protect you from fake websites or malware. If your browser warns that a connection is unsafe, do not enter a password or card details.
How a VPN helps
A VPN creates a protected connection between your device and the VPN service's server. This makes it harder for the local network to see information travelling through the VPN.
A VPN does not delete downloads or hide your signed-in account from a shop. Incognito and a VPN solve different problems, so you can use them together.
How to open Incognito in Chrome
- Open Chrome.
- Click the three dots in the top-right corner.
- Choose “New Incognito window”.
- When you finish, close every Incognito window.
The simple rule: Incognito keeps browsing history off the device, while a VPN protects the connection. Neither tool makes you completely invisible.