Proxy servers and incognito browsing: What you need to know

Private browsing, also known as Incognito or InPrivate mode, has become a popular trend in the past decade. But what do these vague terms mean? Do they ensure a private browsing experience? Or are the tech giants exploiting your personal information in the name of safety and protection? Privacy is your human right and it is crucial for you to know what you are getting yourself into.

What is Incognito mode?

Suppose you search for watches online. After checking out a few available options you log in to your Facebook profile only to discover that your homepage is getting bombarded with targeted ads on watches. Many of us often face similar situations.

Incognito mode creates a separate browsing session from the regular one. The main function of incognito is to make sure that your browsing data is not recorded in your browsing history. This means your browsing history, data, cookies and caches will be unavailable after each session. Closing a window after logging into a website in incognito mode ensures that browser cookies will not be saved. Similarly, cookies used in your main session will not be available in your incognito session. 

The key benefit of this feature is that other users of the same device will not be able to access your browsing history. This will also prevent advertisers from tracking you because third-party sites won't be able to drop a cookie on you. 

Problems with Incognito

Incognito mode is probably one of the most misunderstood features of modern browsers. As useful as it is, incognito mode is not a means for optimum security and privacy. When you open an incognito window you'll see a warning that your data will be available to all the websites you visit, your educational institute or employer, and even your internet service provider. 

In fact, when you browse through a non-private site in private mode, they will still be able to track your activities, IP address, browser information as well as previous browsing data. Eventually, they can use this information to show you targeted ads. Thus, private browsing gives you a false sense of security. While it hides your activities from yourself, it may not actually hide your activities from others. 

What is a Proxy server?

Every internet-connected device has a unique IP address. The IP address reveals your geographic location and the device used while browsing the internet. A proxy server acts as a medium between your computer and the internet. All the information you send to the website will bypass it, and all the information the website sends you will be redirected to your device through the proxy server. Since the website is never in direct contact with your device, your IP address will remain unknown to the website. 

How does it ensure your privacy?

Appearing anonymous on the internet not only protects you from data theft but also provides safety against potential attackers. A proxy server will also delete certain cookies and remove hidden trackers. 

Why you're better off using proxy than incognito

There are several reasons why individuals and organizations are better off using a proxy server, with some of them listed below:

Internet usage control: Parents and employers often set up proxy servers to refrain and monitoring their kids or workers. This enables them to monitor and control which sites you visit and how much time you spend on them. 

Improved speed: A good proxy server ensures better internet speed. A proxy server will save the most recent copy of the site and show you your requested content at the shortest interval of time.

Extended privacy: Proxy servers will change the user device's IP, keeping you anonymous. This means your IP address is safe from anything tracking you.

Optimum security: Your proxy server will encrypt all your transactions made online. This will prevent hackers and malware from harming you, boosting your online security.

Deny access to allowed content and gain access to blocked content: You can customise what content you see and what you don't without geographical restrictions. This means you can potentially access different regions for streaming services like Netflix.

How can you use a proxy server?

You can change your browser settings and set them to enable the use of a proxy server. The method varies over different browsers but it is pretty easy to set it up. To set up a proxy for Chrome, go to: Settings → System → Open your computer's proxy settings → Enable the switch for 'Use a proxy server' → Enter the address and the port → Press Save.

Fill out the address box by typing the proxy server name or the IP address. For the Port field, enter the proxy port number. You can collect these from your IT support tech. 

Safety concerns

Using a proxy server can come with unprecedented risks, so it is of utmost importance to be cautious while choosing a proxy server. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Beware of free proxies: Free isn't always a good option. Most free proxy servers gain revenue by selling your data. Some are not even effective enough. If you plan on using proper proxy servers, consider premium options.

Browsing history: Your proxy server will have your real IP address and your web browsing history. Make sure to check that your proxy server isn't saving and retaining your data. Study the provider's law enforcement policies and procedures.

Encryption: Make sure whatever proxy you use has full encryption capability. The absence of proper encryption defeats the purpose of proxy servers in the first place.

Legal issues: Running proxy servers means there is always a risk of illegal activities. Be extra vigilant of online security laws and make sure you're not doing anything that can be considered a cybercrime or breaking the law.