How to Use Private Browsing in Safari on Mac, iPhone, or iPad

Using a privacy browser like Safari on your Mac, iPhone, or iPad is essential for safeguarding your online activities and protecting your sensitive information. Private browsing mode, also known as “Incognito” in other browsers, offers you an added layer of privacy by not storing your browsing history, cookies, or other data. Let’s explore how to use private browsing in Safari on all these devices.

On Mac:

Launch Safari: Open Safari on your Mac. You can do this by clicking on the Safari icon in your Dock or by searching for Safari in your Applications folder.
Enable Private Browsing: To start a private browsing session, go to the “File” menu in Safari. From there, select “New Private Window” or press the keyboard shortcut Shift + Command + N. A new window will open, and you’ll see a dark background with a mask icon in the address bar, indicating that you are in privacy browser mode.
Browse Privately: Now you can browse the web without Safari saving your browsing history, cookies, or site data. Remember that private browsing won’t hide your online activity from your internet service provider or the websites you visit.
Close the Private Window: When you’re done with your private browsing session, simply close the private window by clicking the red close button (X) at the top-left corner of the window.

On iPhone or iPad:

Open Safari: Unlock your iPhone or iPad and tap the Safari icon on your home screen.
Start Private Browsing: To begin a private browsing session on your mobile device, tap the tab icon in the bottom-right corner of Safari. It looks like two overlapping squares. Then, tap “Private” in the lower-left corner of the screen. This action will switch you to a privacy browser mode.
Browse Anonymously: You’re in private browsing mode, and Safari won’t save your browsing history or store cookies. You can browse the web as you normally would.
Exit Private Browsing: To exit private browsing on your iPhone or iPad, simply tap the tab icon again and then tap “Private” once more. This will return you to regular browsing mode.

What is private browsing?

Private browsing, often referred to as incognito mode in many web browsers, including Safari, is a feature that enhances your online privacy by allowing you to surf the web without leaving traces of your browsing history, cookies, or other site data on your device. When you use a privacy browser like Safari in this mode, your online activities are not recorded locally, making it a valuable tool for maintaining confidentiality and preventing others who may share your device from seeing your browsing history.

Privacy browser Safari’s private browsing mode creates a temporary session where your online activities are not stored on your device. When you visit websites, your browsing history is not saved, and any cookies or temporary files generated during your session are deleted once you close the private window or tab. It’s particularly useful when you want to research sensitive topics, make surprise gift purchases, or access personal accounts on a shared computer or device without leaving a digital trail.

In privacy browser Safari, this mode ensures that your search queries, visited websites, and other online interactions do not influence the suggestions or recommendations provided by the browser. For example, if you’ve been researching a specific product online, you won’t see targeted ads related to that product in your regular browsing sessions because your private browsing activity remains isolated from your standard browsing history and data.

Another significant aspect of using private browsing in Safari is that it prevents websites from storing cookies on your device. Cookies are small files that websites use to remember your preferences and track your activity. In private browsing mode, these cookies are not saved, and you start each session with a clean slate. This feature helps maintain a higher level of anonymity while you explore the web.

However, it’s important to note that while private browsing in Safari enhances your privacy, it doesn’t make you completely anonymous online. Your internet service provider (ISP) can still see your online activity, and websites may track you using other methods beyond cookies. Additionally, if you log into your personal accounts during a private browsing session, the websites themselves may still collect data about your activity, even though Safari won’t retain this information on your device.

Is private browsing really private?

Private browsing in a privacy browser like Safari is designed to enhance your online privacy, but it’s crucial to understand its limitations. While it provides a level of privacy, it isn’t entirely foolproof, and there are factors to consider.

Private browsing in Safari is indeed more private than regular browsing sessions. When you use this mode, Safari won’t save your browsing history, cookies, or site data on your device. Anyone using the same device won’t easily be able to access your browsing history. It’s a useful feature for maintaining confidentiality on shared computers or devices.

However, private browsing doesn’t provide complete anonymity. Your internet service provider (ISP) can still see your online activity. While Safari prevents websites from saving cookies, it doesn’t stop websites from tracking your IP address and other information. This means that websites can potentially identify you as the same user across multiple sessions.

Private browsing also doesn’t protect you from all online threats. It won’t prevent you from downloading malware or protect you from phishing attacks. You still need to be cautious when clicking on links or downloading files, even when using private browsing mode in Safari.

Additionally, any data you enter on websites, such as login credentials or personal information, is not magically encrypted or made invisible in private browsing mode. If you provide sensitive information on a website, it’s still transmitted over the internet in the same way as in regular browsing. For secure transmission of data, look for websites that use HTTPS.

Older versions of iOS

Older versions of iOS

Using older versions of iOS can pose certain challenges when it comes to maintaining your online privacy and security while using the Safari privacy browser. It’s important to be aware of these limitations and take necessary precautions.

Privacy browser Safari on older iOS versions may lack the latest security updates and features. Apple regularly releases updates to iOS to address security vulnerabilities and enhance user privacy. If you’re using an older version of iOS, you might miss out on these critical updates, potentially leaving your device more vulnerable to security threats.

Outdated iOS versions may not support the most recent versions of the Safari browser. This means you could be using an older version of Safari that lacks the latest privacy enhancements and features. It’s advisable to keep your iOS device updated to benefit from improved privacy features and better protection against online tracking.

Compatibility issues may arise when using an older iOS version with certain websites and web services. As websites and web technologies evolve, older iOS versions may struggle to display content correctly or access certain web features. This can affect both your browsing experience and your ability to take advantage of privacy-focused features in Safari.

When using older iOS versions, you should exercise additional caution while browsing the internet with the Safari privacy browser. Since you may not have access to the latest security patches and privacy improvements, it becomes even more important to be mindful of the websites you visit and the links you click on. Consider using additional privacy tools, like a trusted VPN service, to bolster your online privacy and security.

Older versions of macOS

Using older versions of macOS can have implications for your online privacy and security when using the Safari privacy browser. It’s important to be aware of these potential challenges and take necessary precautions.

Older versions of macOS may not receive the latest security updates and privacy enhancements for the Safari privacy browser. Apple regularly releases updates to macOS to address security vulnerabilities and improve user privacy. If you’re using an older version of macOS, you might miss out on these crucial updates, leaving your Safari browser more susceptible to security threats.

Compatibility issues may arise when using older macOS versions with the Safari privacy browser. As websites and web technologies advance, older macOS versions may encounter difficulties displaying content correctly or accessing certain web features. This can impact your browsing experience and limit your ability to benefit from the latest privacy-focused features in Safari.

Outdated macOS versions may not support the most recent versions of the Safari browser. You could be using an older version of Safari that lacks the latest privacy enhancements and features. To ensure you have access to the best privacy protections, consider upgrading your macOS to a more recent version.

When using older macOS versions, it’s crucial to exercise additional caution while browsing the internet with the Safari privacy browser. Since you may not receive the latest security patches and privacy improvements, it becomes even more important to be vigilant about the websites you visit and the links you click on. To enhance your online privacy and security, consider using additional privacy tools like a reputable VPN service.

More ways to improve your privacy in Safari

Improving your privacy in Safari, a privacy-focused browser, involves taking a few extra steps beyond just using its built-in private browsing mode. Here are some additional ways to enhance your online privacy while using Safari:

1. Disable Cross-Site Tracking: In Safari, you can block cross-site tracking by going to “Preferences” > “Privacy” and checking the box labeled “Prevent cross-site tracking.” This feature helps prevent advertisers from following your online activities across different websites, thereby enhancing your privacy.

2. Manage Website Data: Under “Preferences” > “Privacy,” click on “Manage Website Data.” This option allows you to view and remove stored website data, such as cookies, for individual websites. Clearing this data periodically can help maintain your privacy.

3. Enable Content Blockers: Safari supports content blockers, which are extensions that can block unwanted ads, trackers, and other web content that may compromise your privacy. You can find and install content blockers from the App Store. Once installed, enable them in Safari’s settings under “Content Blockers.”

4. Use Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP): ITP is a built-in feature in Safari that reduces cross-site tracking by limiting the use of third-party cookies. It helps protect your privacy by preventing websites from accessing your browsing history and tracking your behavior across the web.

5. Adjust Search Engine Preferences: You can change your default search engine in Safari to one that prioritizes user privacy, such as DuckDuckGo or StartPage. These search engines do not track your search queries or store your personal information.

6. Manage Location Services: Safari may request access to your location for various websites. To enhance privacy, you can go to “Preferences” > “Privacy” > “Location Services” and customize which websites can access your location data or disable it entirely.

7. Regularly Update Safari: You’re using the latest version of Safari, as updates often include security patches and privacy enhancements. Keeping your browser up to date helps protect against known vulnerabilities.

8. Consider a VPN: For an additional layer of privacy, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when browsing in Safari. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for third parties to monitor your online activities, including your ISP.

9. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about online privacy best practices and the latest threats. Being aware of potential risks and knowing how to protect your privacy is a fundamental aspect of maintaining online security.

Prevent cross-site tracking

Preventing cross-site tracking is a crucial aspect of maintaining your online privacy while using Safari, a privacy-focused browser. Cross-site tracking occurs when advertisers and websites collect data about your online behavior across different sites. Here’s how you can prevent cross-site tracking in Safari:

1. Activate “Prevent Cross-Site Tracking” in Safari Preferences: In Safari, go to “Safari” in the menu bar and select “Preferences.” Then, navigate to the “Privacy” tab. Check the box labeled “Prevent cross-site tracking.” This action tells Safari to block cookies and other tracking mechanisms that are used to follow your online activities across various websites. Enabling this setting is a fundamental step in protecting your privacy.

2. Use Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP): Safari includes an intelligent tracking prevention feature that helps combat cross-site tracking. ITP limits the use of third-party cookies, making it more challenging for websites to track your browsing history and behavior across the web. Keep ITP enabled in your Safari settings for enhanced privacy.

3. Regularly Clear Cookies and Website Data: Under Safari’s “Privacy” settings, you have the option to “Manage Website Data.” This feature allows you to view and remove stored website data, including cookies, for specific websites. Regularly clearing this data helps prevent cross-site tracking by erasing information that advertisers may use to identify you.

4. Consider Using Content Blockers: Safari supports content blockers, which are extensions designed to block unwanted ads, trackers, and other web content. Installing and enabling content blockers from the App Store can further enhance your privacy by preventing tracking scripts from loading on websites you visit.

5. Review and Adjust Website Permissions: Safari may request permission for websites to access your location, microphone, camera, and other data. Be selective in granting these permissions, and only allow access to websites you trust. Limiting access helps reduce the chances of cross-site tracking.

6. Educate Yourself About Privacy Settings: Stay informed about Safari’s privacy settings and features. Understanding how Safari works and how it protects your privacy allows you to make informed choices and configure your browser for maximum security.

7. Use a VPN for Added Protection: Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) in conjunction with Safari. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it much harder for third parties to track your online activities, including cross-site tracking.

Change your default search engine

Changing your default search engine in Safari, a privacy-focused browser, is a simple yet effective way to enhance your online privacy. By selecting a search engine that prioritizes user privacy, you can reduce the amount of data collected about your searches and browsing habits. Here’s how to change your default search engine in Safari:

1. Open Safari Preferences: Launch Safari on your Mac or iOS device. On Mac, click “Safari” in the top-left corner of your screen, then select “Preferences.” On iOS, open Safari, tap the address bar, scroll down, and tap “Settings for This Website.”

2. Navigate to Search Settings: In the Safari Preferences on Mac, click on the “Search” tab. On iOS, you’ll find the search engine settings in the “Settings for This Website” section.

3. Choose a New Search Engine: In the “Search Engine” drop-down menu, you’ll see a list of available search engines. Safari offers options like Google, Bing, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo, and others. To prioritize privacy, consider selecting DuckDuckGo, which doesn’t track your searches or store your personal information.

4. Confirm Your Choice: After selecting your preferred search engine, Safari will ask if you want to change your default search engine. Confirm your choice by clicking “Change” on Mac or tapping “Done” on iOS.

5. Start Searching: Your new default search engine is now set in Safari. Whenever you perform a web search using Safari’s address bar (the unified search and address bar at the top of the browser), your queries will be directed to the selected search engine. In this case, your searches will go through DuckDuckGo, prioritizing your privacy.

6. Customize Other Search Engine Settings (Optional): Depending on the search engine you choose, you may have additional settings to customize, such as safe search preferences and location settings. Explore these options to further tailor your search experience to your preferences.

7. Test Your New Search Engine: To confirm that your new search engine is working as expected, try conducting a search using the Safari address bar. You should see results generated by your chosen search engine.

Disable cookies

Disable cookies

Disabling cookies in Safari, a privacy-focused browser, can be a proactive step in enhancing your online privacy. Cookies are small pieces of data that websites store on your device to remember your preferences and track your online activity. While cookies can offer convenience, they can also be used to collect and share your data. Here’s how to disable cookies in Safari to bolster your online privacy:

2. Access Privacy Settings: In the Safari Preferences on Mac, click on the “Privacy” tab. On iOS, you’ll find the privacy settings in the “Settings for This Website” section.

3. Manage Cookies: Under the “Cookies and website data” section, you’ll see options to manage cookies. By default, Safari allows cookies from websites you visit. To disable cookies entirely, click the “Block all cookies” option on Mac or toggle the switch to disable cookies on iOS.

4. Confirm Your Choice: Safari may display a pop-up window asking for confirmation when you choose to block all cookies. Confirm your choice by clicking “Block” or “Allow,” depending on your preference.

5. Test Your Cookie Settings: After disabling cookies, test your settings by browsing various websites. You should notice that websites can no longer store cookies on your device. Keep in mind that disabling cookies might affect certain website functionalities, such as automatic login or saved preferences.

6. Customize Cookie Settings (Optional): In Safari’s privacy settings, you have the option to customize your cookie preferences further. You can choose to block or allow cookies from specific websites or only allow cookies from the websites you visit regularly.

7. Periodically Review Cookie Settings: As you browse the web, you might encounter websites that require cookies for essential functionality. You can temporarily enable cookies for specific sites, and then disable them again afterward.

FAQs

Does private Safari show on other devices?

Private browsing in Safari, a privacy-focused browser, is designed to be isolated and not show up on other devices connected to the same Apple ID. Here’s how it works:

1. Individual Sessions: Private browsing sessions in Safari are isolated on the device where they are initiated. When you open a private browsing window or tab on one device, it doesn’t sync or show up on other devices linked to the same Apple ID. This is to ensure that your private browsing activities remain private and aren’t shared across your devices.

2. Separation of Data: Safari’s private browsing mode intentionally keeps its data separate from your regular browsing session. It doesn’t save your browsing history, cookies, or site data on the device where you’re using private mode. This separation extends to iCloud Tabs and browsing history syncing, which means your private browsing history is not shared across your Apple devices.

3. Syncing Limitations: While private browsing data is isolated on the device, some non-browser-related data, such as iCloud Keychain, may still sync across devices. This data includes saved usernames and passwords for websites, which can be used in private mode but may be synced across your Apple devices for your convenience.

4. Exceptions to Isolation: It’s worth mentioning that certain website behaviors or extensions may attempt to break the isolation between private and regular browsing. For example, a website that uses fingerprinting techniques might try to track your behavior across sessions. However, Safari’s privacy features are designed to prevent such tracking.

How do I turn on private browsing on Safari Mac?

Enabling private browsing in Safari on your Mac is a straightforward process. This privacy browser mode allows you to browse the web without Safari recording your browsing history, saving cookies, or storing other site data. Here’s how to turn on private browsing:

1. Launch Safari: Open Safari on your Mac. You can do this by clicking on the Safari icon in your Dock or by searching for Safari in your Applications folder.

2. Start a New Private Window: To initiate private browsing, go to the “File” menu in the top-left corner of your screen. From there, select “New Private Window.” Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut Shift + Command + N to open a new private window.

3. Confirm Private Browsing Mode: When you open a new private window, Safari will display a dark background with a mask icon in the address bar. This visual indicator signifies that you are now in private browsing mode, where your online activities won’t be recorded on your device.

4. Browse Privately: You can now browse the web in this private window, knowing that Safari won’t save your browsing history, cookies, or other site data. Any tabs you open within this private window will also be in private mode.

5. Close the Private Window: When you’re done with your private browsing session, simply close the private window. You can do this by clicking the red close button (X) at the top-left corner of the window or by pressing Command + W while the private window is active.