The internet is a handy tool that gives us access to instant answers to our questions, endless online shopping options and plenty of entertainment, too.
Google in particular is a clever search engine which will not only seek out what you're searching for, it will also tailor results to you over time. To do that, it tracks your past search data, and the websites and links that you clicked on.
And while this is aimed at improving future results, some may not like the fact that their search data is tracked, writes the Mirror.
Whether you've been searching for a secret birthday or simply want to keep your data personal, it may be worth getting into the habit of using a handy Google trick.
"When you search on Google with Web & App Activity turned on, Google saves activity like your Search history to your Google Account," the tech company confirmed.
"We use your saved activity across Google services to give you more personalised experiences, like app and content recommendations."
How to clear your history
To make sure all of your search history is gone for good simply launch the Google app on your smartphone then tap your profile picture in the top right-hand corner of the screen.
Next, you'll see the Search History menu, where you can simply tap on the cross mark (X) to remove any past results. There's also the option to delete everything or choose a custom date range.
How to switch on Incognito Mode using Chrome
"Incognito" or "Private" modes are options that, once activated, allow you to surf the web with nothing recorded by your browser.
Here's how to open an Incognito window:
- On your computer, open Chrome.
- At the top right, click More More and then New incognito window.
- A new window appears. At the top corner, check for the Incognito icon Incognito.
- You can also use a keyboard shortcut to open an incognito window: Windows, Linux or Chrome OS: Press Ctrl + Shift + n. Mac: Press ⌘ + Shift + n.
Likewise, In the Safari app on your Mac, choose File and then New Private Window, or switch to a private window that's already open to use the internet without being tracked. This operates in the same way that Incognito does on Google.
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