Google to face lawsuit for tracking Chrome users even in incognito mode

US District Court judge ruled that the company did not notify users that Google engages in the alleged data collection while the user is in private browsing mode.

It's no secret that social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and search engine giant Google are notorious for tracking user activities to earn revenue by selling user-data to clients and flood phones and PCs with ads.

In 2008, Google, in a bid to offer privacy to the users, launched the 'Incognito mode', and once activated, users were assured that the company won't be able to track or store browsing history.

However, in June 2020, three Chrome users filed a $5 billion class-action lawsuit against Google for not keeping the promise of total privacy on incognito mode.

Read | Does Google track 'incognito' users?

It is accused of conducting pervasive data tracking business. They said California's Mountain View-based firm continues to keep a tab on user activities even with Incognito mode turned on.

To that Google has replied that the company doesn't track any activity or save any cookies on the device or linked to the particular user's Google account. Each time a user exits the Incognito window, the Chrome browser app discards any site data and cookies associated with that particular browsing session.

However, if the user goes to any third-party website and log-in with a username and password, the former can track the user at all times. Google can't be held guilty on this.

Also, Google adds that it won't be able to prevent activity and location tracking if the users are operating devices linked to educational institutes or company employers.

Furthermore, all information such as browsing history and usage time will be visible to the Internet service provider, but won't be able to identify the person if the latter shut the browser window.

Now, US District Court Judge Lucy Koh has given a ruling that the company "did not notify users that Google engages in the alleged data collection while the user is in private browsing mode"

The search engine has announced that it will file another appeal to drop the charges.

“We strongly dispute these claims and we will defend ourselves vigorously against them. Incognito mode in Chrome gives you the choice to browse the internet without your activity being saved to your browser or device. As we clearly state each time you open a new incognito tab, websites might be able to collect information about your browsing activity during your session,” Google spokesperson said to DH

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