Google finally admits data collection in Chrome's 'incognito' mode

 Google is finally revealing that it's collecting your data if you use Google Chrome, even if you use Incognito mode. This comes after the internet giant agreed to a $5 billion settlement to avoid a 2020 lawsuit.

The lawsuit claimed Google collected information like your IP address, device data, and even browser history — providing a private browsing experience despite Incognito mode. Google claimed that it had warned users about websites potentially tracking user activity in order to dismiss the lawsuit.

However, a judge ruled that Google never explicitly told users that it was tracking them and collecting information. And if users were not aware, they could not consent to data collection.

Since Google agreed to the settlement last month, there have been two major developments: Google has updated its disclaimer in incognito mode, according to MSPowerUser, and lawyers are working to finalize the settlement.

So far, Google has only updated the disclaimer in its Canary developer tools on Windows, Android, and other devices. If you use it and go into incognito mode, you'll see a message that reads:

"Other people using this device won't be able to see your activity, so you can browse more privately. This limits how data is collected by the websites you visit and the services they use, including Google. There will be no changes. Downloads, bookmarks and reading list items will be changed. Be safe."

The lawyers have until February 24 to present themselves in court with a final settlement agreement. The plaintiffs originally wanted damages of $5,000 per user for federal wiretapping and violations of California privacy laws.

We contacted Google, and a spokesperson issued this statement to Cyberguy: