safari private browsing remembers history

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Safari Private Browsing is still remembering history for a whole week

• Thread starter jedimasterkyle
• Start date Feb 13, 2024
• Sort by reaction score
• macOS Sonoma (14)

jedimasterkyle

Macrumors 6502.

• Feb 13, 2024

macrumors member

It works as expected here. I'd take some screenshots etc & report it to Apple.  

macrumors regular

Works as expected here on 14.3.1. Of course, when you open a private browsing window you can see the history from non-private browsing, is this the case? Also, if you have activated profiles in Safari you probably have one profile called Personal. Can you mistakenly have chosen a new "Personal" window instead of a "Private" window during browsing-sessions earlier in the week?  

macrumors Penryn

• Feb 14, 2024

Cookie by SweetP Productions

jedimasterkyle said: So, as the title says, I just realized that Safari on MacOS Sonoma has been saving my search history for over a week while in private browsing. Every time I close Safari, I make sure the app is CLOSED . But when I reopen it in private browsing mode, voila...a weeks worth of search history. Not sure if anyone else has had this issue but yeah...this statement is mis-leading or downright false. View attachment 2349053 Click to expand...

macrumors 603

• Feb 15, 2024

Delete Safari History rm ~/Library/Safari/History.* Delete Safari Cookies rm ~/Library/Containers/com.apple.Safari/Data/Library/Cookies/Cookies.binarycookies Delete SafariTabs rm ~/Library/Containers/com.apple.Safari/Data/Library/Safari/SafariTabs.* rm ~/Library/Containers/com.apple.Safari/Data/Library/Safari/CloudTabs.* Delete Safari Caches rm -r ~/Library/Containers/com.apple.Safari/Data/Library/Caches All together in an AppleScript that can be saved as an app: AppleScript: try do shell script "rm ~/Library/Safari/History.*" end try try do shell script "rm ~/Library/Containers/com.apple.Safari/Data/Library/Cookies/Cookies.binarycookies" end try try do shell script "rm ~/Library/Containers/com.apple.Safari/Data/Library/Safari/SafariTabs.*" end try try do shell script "rm ~/Library/Containers/com.apple.Safari/Data/Library/Safari/CloudTabs.*" end try try do shell script "rm -r ~/Library/Containers/com.apple.Safari/Data/Library/Caches" end try  

The problem with running a script or command like the ones posted by bogdan above is that doing so will remove ALL cookies -- even some that you might rather retain for frequently-used web sites. Using "Cookie" (as I mentioned in reply 4 above) allows you to select/deselect those specific cookies you WANT to keep, and REMOVE all others. For example, if you remove all cookies, you'll have to re-log into this site. But with Cookie, I have macrumors.com on my "saved" cookie list, so my settings are retained from visit to visit. While, at the same time, cookies and all other data from sites I may visit randomly are destroyed when I close my browser (Safari, but Cookie works with multiple browsers, as well). It's the best "cookie-handling" app I've seen. Actually, it seems to me that such a feature (select cookies to be retained while others are destroyed when closing) ought to be a feature of ALL browsers...  

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Why is Safari private browsing remembering my searches and autofilling them?

After exiting private browsing, anything I searched in while in private will autofill, but does not show up in my history. How do I fix this and keep this from happening again? (on an iPhone)

Posted on Jan 19, 2022 2:31 PM

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Jan 20, 2022 2:00 PM in response to Rosh20

Hello Rosh20,

Welcome to Apple Support Communities!

We understand you're seeing privately browsed websites appearing with autofill on Safari. We'll be glad to assist.

To help fix this, you can remove the history of websites you've previously visited. Follow the steps here to complete this: Clear the history and cookies from Safari on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

Then follow the steps here to use private browsing: Turn Private Browsing on or off on your iPhone or iPod touch

Test and let us know the result.

Have a nice day.

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How to Use Safari's Private Browsing Mode

This article explains how to use Safari's Private Browsing mode, which prevents your browsing history from being logged on your Apple devices. It's a useful feature if you're buying gifts online for friends or family, for instance, and you don't want anyone with access to your devices to find out what you're up to.

Using Safari's Private Browsing Mode

Enabling Private Browsing limits Safari in three important ways: It prevents the browser from creating a history of the pages you visit, it stops AutoFill information like website usernames and passwords from being remembered, and any tabs you open won't be stored in iCloud .

Also, for added peace of mind when you browse privately, Safari automatically prevents cross-site tracking , and requests that sites and third-party content providers don't track you as a rule. Additionally, the privacy mode stops sites from modifying any information stored on your iOS device, and deletes cookies when you close the associated tab.

To enable Private Browsing in Safari, follow these steps.

• Open Safari on your iPhone or iPad , tap the Pages icon (consisting of two squares) to bring up the open tabs view, and then tap the profile icon, centered at the bottom of the screen.

• When you're done browsing, return to the open tabs view, individually swipe any open tabs to close them if you wish.
• Tap the profile icon again, then choose your regular profile at the top. Your private browsing session is now cleared from memory.

Clearing Existing Browsing History

When you clear your browsing history on a device running iOS 11 or higher, the same logs are cleared on any other devices signed into your ‌iCloud‌ account. The following methods also clear all cookies and web data on the device you're currently using, although AutoFill information remains unchanged.

The first method outlined below allows you to either limit the clearing of history, cookies and website data to a specific timeframe, or to delete your existing web history altogether.

• Open Safari and with a tab open, tap the Bookmarks icon (the open book) located at the bottom of the screen.
• Tap the tab at the top of the screen with a clock symbol, and you'll see a history of your browsing activity.
• To remove instances of recorded visits to specific web pages, swipe leftwards across individual logs in the list and tap the red delete button that appears.
• To delete the entire browsing history list, tap Clear .
• Choose the timeframe to clear ( Last hour , Today , Today and yesterday , or All history ), choose the profile or select All Profiles , then tap Clear History .

The second method of wiping your browsing history might be considered the 'nuke' option, since it clears all history, cookies and website data on that device, regardless of when the sites were accessed.

• Open the Settings app and scroll down to Safari in the list.

And that's it. Note that these built-in Safari features only make you safer from discovery by other people in the same household.

If your privacy concerns extend to a desire for enhanced security and anonymity online, consider subscribing to a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service that offers an iOS client or supports OpenVPN ( Private Internet Access and ProtonVPN are two popular options), and using a Tor-powered browser for iOS .

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Top Rated Comments

This article explains how to use Safari's Private Browsing mode, which prevents your browsing history from being logged on your Apple devices. It's a useful feature if you're buying gifts online for friends or family, for instance, and you don't want anyone with access to your devices to find out what you're up to.

I can really use this info, because I’m always “buying gifts”. ;) :cool:

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How to Turn on Safari Private Browsing on iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide

Turning on Safari Private Browsing on an iPhone is a simple process. Open the Safari app, tap the tabs button (which looks like two overlapping squares), then tap “Private” to turn on Private Browsing Mode. Now, Safari won’t remember the pages you visit, your search history, or your AutoFill information.

After you complete this action, your browsing activity will not be saved in Safari. This means that websites you visit won’t appear in your history, and information entered in forms won’t be saved for AutoFill.

Introduction

In today’s digital age, privacy is a hot commodity. With every click, tap, and scroll, we leave digital footprints that can tell a story about who we are and what we like to do online. That’s why learning how to turn on Safari Private Browsing on your iPhone is essential. Whether you’re entering sensitive information, researching a surprise gift, or simply want to keep your browsing history to yourself, Private Browsing Mode is your go-to feature.

This function is particularly handy for shared devices or when you want to keep your browsing habits under wraps. So, if you’re an iPhone user looking to browse the web without leaving a trace, you’re in the right place. We’ll show you how to enable this feature in just a few easy steps.

Step by Step Tutorial on How to Turn on Safari Private Browsing on an iPhone

Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what we’ll achieve here. By following these simple steps, you’ll enable Private Browsing Mode in Safari, which prevents Safari from keeping track of your browsing history, search records, and AutoFill information.

Step 1: Open the Safari App

Navigate to your iPhone’s home screen and tap on the Safari app to open it.

Opening the Safari app is your gateway to the internet on your iPhone. Make sure you’re connected to the internet before you proceed.

Step 2: Access Your Open Tabs

Look for the tabs button, which resembles two overlapping squares, and tap on it.

This button will show you all your currently open tabs. If you have many tabs open, you may have to swipe left or right to find the “Private” option.

Step 3: Enable Private Browsing

Find the “Private” option at the bottom left of the screen and tap it.

Once you tap “Private,” you’ll notice the color of the browser interface changes, indicating that you’re now in Private Browsing Mode.

Additional Information

Now that you’re all set with Private Browsing Mode on Safari, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, while your browsing activity isn’t saved on your iPhone, your internet service provider or employer can still track it. Also, if you download files while in Private Browsing, they’re saved to your phone and visible in the Downloads folder.

Moreover, not all Safari features are available in this mode; for example, you can’t use Handoff to pass browsing activity between devices. Lastly, remember to close all private tabs before returning to regular browsing to maintain your privacy.

• Open the Safari app on your iPhone.
• Tap the tabs button to view your open tabs.
• Tap “Private” to enter Private Browsing Mode.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does private browsing hide my activity from my employer or internet service provider.

No, Private Browsing only prevents Safari from saving your browsing data on your iPhone. Your activity can still be tracked by your internet service provider or employer.

Will downloads in Private Browsing show up in my regular downloads folder?

Yes, any files you download while in Private Browsing Mode will be saved to your iPhone and visible in the Downloads folder.

Can I use Handoff with Private Browsing?

No, Handoff does not work with Private Browsing tabs, as your browsing activity isn’t saved.

Can websites track me while I’m using Private Browsing?

Some websites may still track your activity using cookies during your Private Browsing session, but they will not be saved once you close the tabs.

How do I turn off Private Browsing?

To exit Private Browsing Mode, open the tabs view, tap “Private” again, and it will switch back to regular browsing.

Turning on Safari Private Browsing on your iPhone is a surefire way to maintain your online privacy. Whether it’s to shop for a surprise, handle sensitive work, or simply because you value your digital privacy, navigating this feature is a breeze. Just remember that while Private Browsing protects your data on your device, it doesn’t make you invisible online. Always exercise caution and use additional privacy tools if needed. Happy private browsing!

Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.

After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.

His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.

Read his full bio here.

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How to View Safari Private Browsing History on Mac

In case you’re not aware, Apple’s Safari browser, like other popular browsers, offers a Private Browsing mode . Simply put, when you use this feature while using Safari, the browser won’t log or save any of your activity. Other browsers call this Incognito Mode. The downside is that all your saved preferences for websites you frequently visited are disabled. Still, it won’t hurt to browse websites using the feature from time to time for some private browsing experience. But is there really no way to browse your Private Browsing history? Well, there is, and that’s what I’m going to show you in this guide on how to view Private Browsing history in Safari on your Mac.

How Does Private Browsing Work in Safari

When you opt to browse websites in Safari using Private Browsing, it opens up a new private window in your browser. As previously mentioned, when privately browsing in Safari, your activity will not be logged or saved. Although it’s not a foolproof way of browsing privately, the feature still offers some level of privacy. As such, Private Browsing in Safari won’t record your search engine history, webpages you’ve visited, browsing activity, and most especially passwords you used on different websites.

It should be noted that this feature doesn’t really prevent the websites you visited from knowing who you are and your browsing activity on the website.

How to Browse Privately in Safari on Your Mac

Before I discuss the procedure on how to view your Private Browsing history on Mac, let me walk you through the steps on how to browse privately. You can either do it one time or opt to always browse privately.

To browse privately in Safari one time:

• Open the Safari app on your Mac.

To always browse privately in Safari:

• Click General.

What is the Mac Terminal Archive?

Now that you know how to use Private Browsing in Safari on your Mac, it’s time for you to know that your Mac actually logs that browsing history. This can be found in your Mac’s Terminal archive. You’ll be surprised to know that this Terminal archive contains information about all of the websites you visited. That’s even when you use the Private Browsing feature. So, you can view Private Browsing history via the Terminal archive.

How to View Private Browsing History in Safari on Mac

Time needed:  1 minute

You will notice that the website names have been translated into their corresponding IP addresses. You won’t see the exact name of the websites. That’s because your Mac has consulted a DNS directory to translate the website names into IP addresses.

We think you might also be interested in how to clear browser cache on Mac for Chrome, Firefox and Safari .

Final Words: Is It Really Safe to Browse Privately in Safari?

According to Apple, when you browse privately in Safari :

• The browser won’t save the web pages you visit and your Autofill information.
• Safari won’t store webpages you open in iCloud.
• Safari won’t include your recent searches in the results list when you use the Smart Search field.
• Safari won’t include items you downloaded in the download list.
• Changes to your cookies and website won’t be saved.

Knowing all that, Private Browsing in Safari would seem safe. But then, when you browse privately, are you really browsing anonymously, or does the feature just hide your information from anyone who could access your Mac? However, if somebody gets physical access to your Mac and knows their way around, they can still see the websites you visited, since the information is stored in the DNS cache of your Mac.

Even worse is when you are using a public network. The network administrator can still see the websites you are visiting using your Mac. The bottom line is that advertisers can still track you even if you browse privately on your Mac, and then serve targeted ads. If you don’t mind that at all, then there’s no harm in always browsing privately in Safari on your Mac.

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VPNoverview.com Privacy Anonymous Browsing Everything You Need to Know About Safari Private Browsing

Everything You Need to Know About Safari Private Browsing

Ever wondered what Safari Private Browsing does exactly? Chances are it might not be giving you the level of online privacy you expect. Safari Private Browsing does have some perks, including:

• Stopping Safari from remembering the websites you’ve visited
• Not storing any new usernames, passwords, payments cards, and other information you input into private browsing
• Forgetting any search engine queries you’ve run
• Allowing you to save money by avoiding marketing cookies that might inflate prices

However, this is pretty much all the privacy that you’ll get with Safari Private Browsing. This incognito mode  won’t cloak your IP address, encrypt your internet traffic, or make you safe on public Wi-Fi . Private browsing still leaves you pretty exposed to a lot of the risks that come with connecting to the internet.

For true online anonymity, you’ll need to use a VPN to change your IP address . We’re big fans of ExpressVPN, one of the fastest VPNs in the industry.

Below, you’ll find more information on how to use Safari Private Browsing on all your Apple devices, as well as more details on how this incognito mode does and doesn’t protect your privacy.

If you use a Mac, iPhone, or iPad, then chances are you’ve encountered Safari Private Browsing before. Whether you’re shopping for a partner’s gift or want to snoop on a long-lost colleague’s LinkedIn, there are many reasons why you might want to use private mode in Safari.

In this article, we answer the question, what is Safari Private Browsing ? We’ll also tell you what this handy tool can’t  do to save you any embarrassment or risk to your online security.

What is Safari Private Browsing?

There’s a little more to this method of browsing than meets the eye, but we’ll go into specifics further down in this article. The point is, for a more private experience, you can use Safari’s incognito mode . You’ll be logged out of all accounts, and Safari won’t autofill user logins, passwords, or payment information. When you turn on private browsing, Safari won’t remember :

• Your search engine history
• Webpages you’ve visited
• Browsing activity or history

You should, however, be aware of a major drawback of this tool on Macs: your browsing activity likely isn’t as hidden as you might think. Websites you visit can still see who you are and what you’re doing . You can read more about this in our general incognito mode article .

With Macs, Private Browsing information is logged in a different place, as well: your Terminal archive.

Beware the Mac Terminal archive

On Macs, there’s something called the Terminal archive , and it’s as scary as it sounds — well, for fans of privacy at least. It’s a treasure trove for snoops. The Terminal archive contains all of the websites you visit , whether you’re using Safari Private Browsing or not. This is because your Mac stores static images and other files when you visit a website for the first time. This makes future visits to these sites and page loading much faster, as your Mac pulls the relevant files from the Terminal archive.

This command-line function also lets you make systemic changes to your Mac . For most users, there’ll never be a need to make any changes in the Terminal archive, and you shouldn’t if you don’t know what you’re doing. You could end up breaking something critical in your computer’s operating system if you tinker with the Terminal.

However, it is good to know that, even when you’re using Safari’s Private Browsing mode, your online activity is logged here.

Make your Safari Private Browsing truly private

By now, you might be asking yourself: how do I clear the cache on my Mac? Well, today’s your lucky day.  Below, you’ll find a brief, step-by-step guide to clearing the cache on a Mac . Just make sure not to do anything else while inside the Terminal.

• Open “ Finder ,” then search for “ Terminal ” in the search bar.
• Run the  Terminal  application.
• Paste the following text into the Terminal and hit enter: sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder

You may have to enter your Admin password to proceed. This is going to flush the DNS cache.

Remember that you shouldn’t do anything else inside of the Terminal application unless you know what you’re doing. It only takes a short command to nuke files or entire directories in this app forever! So, tread carefully.

Why You Should Use Safari Private Browsing on Macs and iOS

We can hypothesize all we want, but you’ve probably got a good idea of why you  use private browsing. According to a 2018 research study , the most common reason people use private browsing is so others that are using a shared device can’t see what they’re doing. This comes down to protecting two things from other users of your device:

• Their personal data
• Their browsing activity

Fortunately, these are two things that Safari Private Mode manages to do wonderfully. Below, you can read more about what else Safari Private Browsing does for you .

Online privacy

• Your browser won’t remember what websites you’ve visited.  Anything you browse while you’re in private browsing mode won’t be remembered by Safari. So, if you start shopping online for gifts or a product that you find embarrassing, you won’t usually have to worry about your friends or family coming across your browsing history.
• Safari won’t suggest usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and so   on.  You’ve probably noticed that Safari can remember usernames, passwords, credit cards, and other information when you use it for the first time. If you tell your Mac, smartphone, or tablet to remember those details, they’ll be automatically filled in the next time you visit the website. With Safari Private Mode enabled, these kinds of details won’t be stored: you won’t be prompted to save or autofill them at all.
• Your search engine queries won’t be remembered . If you’ve been shopping for gifts or trying to self-diagnose, you probably don’t want other users of the computer to see what you’ve searched for . Normally, you’ll see suggested searches popping up in search engines like Google. Based on your past searches and clicks, some links might be colored purple instead of blue, too. In private browsing mode, these won’t appear, nor will any new searches be stored.

How to pay less with Safari Private Browsing

There’s more to private mode options than just online security. You could also save money with Safari Private Browsing, as you won’t be quoted higher prices for products you’ve already viewed. When you visit a website, cookies (small text files) are stored on your computer by your browser.

These kinds of cookies aren’t delicious or rewarding at all. Instead, they allow the site to track you and figure out that you’re interested in, for example, a particular holiday destination. This can result in you seeing higher airfares, hotel booking fees, and more. Just turn on Safari’s Private Browsing to s top cookies from being stored on your browser and avoid hiked prices.

How to Go Incognito on Safari

Safari Private Browsing on a Mac

Using  Safari Private Browsing  on a Mac is simple. If you’re reading this on a Mac, you can skip step one in our step-by-step guide below:

• Open Safari on your Mac.
• Click on “ File ” in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
• Select “ New Private Window .” This will open a new private tab, but you can open as many private tabs in your tab bar as you need.

It’s that simple. Now, any new tab you open within this new private browsing window will be a private browsing tab. Give it a whirl by opening some new private tabs and navigating to a website you frequently log into. You’ll notice that your username and password aren’t suggested for autofill as they usually would be .

Also, you’ll know that you’re in private browsing, as the URL bar will have a gray background rather than the usual white. Just remember to ignore or close your existing browser window if you had any open. If in doubt, check the background color of the URL bar.

Finally, to  turn off private browsing in Safari , simply click the red cross in the corner of the browser window as you usually would.

Safari Private Browsing on an iPhone

Using  Safari’s private browsing mode on an iPhone or iPad is fairly straightforward and could increase your privacy on an iPhone . If you’re running  iOS 14 or earlier , simply follow the steps below:

• Open  Safari on your phone.
• Tap on the “ Tabs ” button. That’s the two small squares in the bottom-right corner of your Safari window on iPhone.
• A new option called “Private” should appear.
• Tap “ Private ” and you’ll be taken to a blank screen confirming that you’re using Private Browsing Mode . You’ll notice that it’s using the same gray color scheme as Safari for Mac.
• Lastly, click on the small “ + ” (plus) icon to launch a private browsing window.

If you’re using  Apple’s latest iPhone update, iOS 15.1.1 , you’ll need to follow a slightly different (and hey, we’ll say it — more confusing) set of steps:

• Tap on the “ Tabs ” button.
• Tap where it says “ X Tab(s) ” – this number will reflect the number of windows you have open.
• Tap “ Private .”
• Now, you’re in Private Browsing mode and can click the small “ + ” (plus) icon to launch a new private window.

Again, turning off private browsing in Safari for iPhones or iPads is simple. Just press the same “ Private ” button that you used to enable the feature. Don’t forget, if you have multiple private tabs open, they won’t close automatically. Swipe each tab closed before you exit private mode if you want to leave no trace.

How to Set Safari Private Browsing as the Default

If you’d rather always browse privately, you can also set Safari Private Browsing as your default, so that it opens automatically whenever you open a new tab or window. Check out the step-by-step instructions below for a Mac :

• Make sure your active application is Safari, then select “ Safari ” from your Mac’s toolbar at the top of your screen. Click on “ Preferences ” next, which can also be accessed using the keyboard shortcut “ Command ” + “ , ” (that’s Command, plus a comma).
• Now, you should see the Privacy window for Safari. Click on the “ General ” tab.
• Next to “Safari opens with”, select “ A new private window ” from the drop-down list.

While you  can’t automatically use Safari Private Browsing by default on mobile , there are some options for minimizing what’s remembered, stored, or recommended. Here’s how you get there:

• Open the “ Settings ” application.
• Scroll down until you see “ Safari ” and tap on that option.

Now, you’ll have the choice to use a number of features. You can:

• Disable search engine suggestions
• Disable Safari suggestions specifically
• Turn off autofill for Safari , either for personal information, payment information, or both
• Disable “ Favorites “, which you can save in your Safari app’s home screen
• Turn off “ Frequently Visited Sites “, which appear below your favorites

In this menu, you can also  prevent cross-site tracking and  block all cookies on the websites that you visit. In the event that you forget to launch Safari Private Browsing, these options should give you at least a little more privacy whenever you go online.

Is Safari Private Browsing Safe?

That last risk is surprisingly common on public Wi-Fi networks  too. Bear in mind that private browsing doesn’t protect you against malware (malicious software) either, nor does it protect your payment information or other personal details . For true online anonymity and to  improve your online security , you should give serious thought to using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) .

How to use a VPN with Safari Private Browsing

Using a VPN along with Safari Private Browsing should give you the online security you’re looking for. In addition to avoiding any logged browsing history or search history , you’ll be much harder to track and enjoy greater online anonymity. You can check out the many advantages of a VPN for more information. Want to get started right away? The following steps will only take a few minutes of your time:

• Choose a VPN provider and create an account. We recommend checking out our list of the best VPNs if this is new ground for you. Alternatively, ExpressVPN is a market-leading VPN provider that we’re always happy to recommend.
• Download and install  the VPN software onto your Mac. You can also download ExpressVPN for mobile on your iPhone. Other premium providers like NordVPN, CyberGhost, and Surfshark all offer really slick mobile apps for iOS, too.
• Log into your account , either in the desktop software or the mobile app.
• Choose a VPN server in a country of your choice. If you’re purely interested in online security, then the location you choose isn’t  too  important (though some will be faster than others). However, if you want to  save money on subscriptions , for example, you should give it some more thought.
• Connect to the VPN server . When you connect, you’ll be  changing your IP address to mirror the VPN server’s IP. It’s safe, legal ( in most countries ), and best of all, it’ll give you far greater online security than simply using Safari Private Browsing alone.

Safari Private Browsing is perfect for hiding those Christmas or birthday purchases from your family before the big day. It’s also a great way to save money on flights, hotels , or other purchases. However, it won’t do much for your online security. If you want  truly private browsing , then use a VPN along with Safari private mode.

Interested in exploring other private browsers? Check out these articles below:

• How Anonymous Is DuckDuckGo?
• Is Vivaldi Browser Safe?
• How to Set Up Firefox as an Anonymous Browser

Do you want to know how to enable private browsing on Safari? Are you wondering how much privacy Safari Private Browsing actually gives you? You’ll find these answers and more in our frequently asked questions below.

To turn on Private Browsing in Safari for Mac, follow these simple steps:

• Make sure Safari is the active application that you’re using.
• Click on  File in the menu bar along the top of the screen.
• Click on  New Private Window to switch to private browsing mode.

To turn on Private Browsing in Safari for iPhone or iPad, the process is much the same:

• Open the  Safari application.
• Tap on the  Tabs icon (the two small squares in the lower-right corner of your screen).
• Tap on  Private to switch to private browsing.
• Click on the small  + (plus) icon to open a new private browsing tab.

Check out our full article for more information on Safari Private Browsing.

No. Safari Private Browsing, like any browser’s private mode, won’t protect you against a lot of online threats. Your IP address will still be visible to many third-party individuals and organizations. For example, your ISP will know what websites you’ve visited, and hackers could determine your location using your IP (though some private modes do limit location tracking). For true online privacy and anonymity, you’re safer using a VPN like ExpressVPN .

With Private Browsing, it’s more difficult for websites to track you, since cookies are cleared the moment you close the browser — but it’s not impossible. Your ISP (Internet Service Provider), employer, school, or college could still see your internet history . That is, unless you use a VPN along with the incognito mode.

Yes. The owner of an internet connection can absolutely check up on your browsing session if they have the right technical knowledge. Some routers can be set up to remember all URLs a device accesses. So, if you’re trying to fly under your parents’ radar, for example, they could potentially bust you using the family router, even if you’re exclusively using private browsing modes.

For true anonymity , you’ll want to use a VPN. With a VPN connection, all of your internet traffic is encrypted, which gives you far better anonymity and privacy than using private browsing on its own.

Chris Bluvshtein Author

Senior journalist.

Chris is a tech journalist with many years’ experience covering online privacy and cybersecurity. He’s also a published author and works as a Product Manager for some of the most innovative software development companies.

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Hi Chris , I’m finding while using private mode in safari my sound is being cut out and I have not been able to find a way to reconnect it. I use it on a iPad with a vpn and trend anti spam for protection as much as it can in private mode. I have not been able to find any reason as to why this is happening.

Hey Wayne, I've done a bit of digging, and I've found something that might be worth a try. It seems that recent versions of Safari have a built-in feature that can prevent audio from playing when you visit a website; it's enabled by default too. Give this a try and let me know if the issue goes away: 1. Open the Safari menu and click preferences 2. Click on the websites tab 3. Look for the setting: "When visiting other websites", which has a drop-down selection beside it 4. Change this setting so that it allows websites with media to play sound. You can alternatively add individual websites to this list if you'd rather have control over which ones can play sound by default.

Hi Chris Just tried your Terminal Commands, I am running macOS Monterey The Terminal Commands Below are not working dscacheutil -cachedump -entries Host dscacheutil -flushcache

You're right. Thank you for pointing it out to us! There is a new terminal command you'll now need instead: "sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder". We've adjusted the article to reflect this. Hope this helps!

Looking for a VPN?

Take a look at our overview of the most trustworthy, fast, and safe VPN services. Extensively tested by our experts.

How To Find Private Browsing History In Safari

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Introduction

Private browsing has become a common practice for many individuals seeking to maintain their online privacy. Whether it's to plan a surprise gift for a loved one or to research sensitive topics, the need for privacy while browsing the web is undeniable. Safari, the default web browser for Apple devices, offers a private browsing mode known as "Private Browsing." This feature allows users to surf the internet without leaving a trace of their online activity on the device. However, finding the private browsing history in Safari can be a bit tricky, as it is designed to be discreet and secure.

In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of private browsing in Safari and explore the methods to uncover the elusive private browsing history on both Mac computers and iOS devices. Whether you're a curious individual wanting to know more about your own browsing habits or a concerned parent or employer seeking to monitor the online activities of others, understanding how to find private browsing history in Safari is essential.

So, let's embark on a journey to unravel the mysteries of private browsing in Safari and discover the techniques to unearth the hidden trails of online exploration. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a privacy advocate, or simply someone looking to gain a deeper understanding of Safari's private browsing features, this article will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the realm of private browsing history in Safari.

Understanding Private Browsing in Safari

Private browsing, also known as "incognito mode" in other web browsers, is a feature designed to allow users to browse the internet without leaving a trail of their online activity on the device. In Safari, Apple's native web browser , this feature is referred to as "Private Browsing." When activated, Private Browsing prevents the browser from storing the browsing history, cookies, and other site data, as well as clearing any existing data once the private browsing session is ended.

One of the primary purposes of private browsing is to provide users with a level of privacy and discretion while navigating the web. It is particularly useful when individuals want to visit websites without the fear of their browsing history being recorded on the device. This can be beneficial for various reasons, such as researching sensitive topics, accessing personal accounts on shared devices, or simply wanting to maintain privacy while browsing.

It's important to note that while private browsing prevents the browser from storing the browsing history locally, it does not make the user completely anonymous online. Internet service providers, websites, and network administrators may still be able to track online activities. Therefore, private browsing should not be considered a foolproof method for complete anonymity on the internet.

In Safari, activating Private Browsing is a straightforward process. Users can enable it from the Safari menu on a Mac computer or from the settings within the Safari app on an iPhone or iPad. Once activated, a new private browsing window opens, and a distinctive indicator, such as a dark background, appears to signify that the browser is in private mode.

Understanding the nuances of private browsing in Safari is essential for users who wish to maintain their privacy while exploring the web. It provides a layer of protection against the storage of browsing history and cookies, offering a sense of security and discretion during online activities. However, it's crucial to remember that private browsing is not a foolproof method for complete anonymity, and additional measures may be necessary for enhanced privacy and security online.

Finding Private Browsing History on Mac

Locating the private browsing history on a Mac can be a perplexing task, given the discreet nature of private browsing in Safari. When a user engages in private browsing, Safari refrains from recording the visited websites, searches, or any other browsing activity in the history log. This intentional omission is a fundamental aspect of private browsing, designed to uphold the user's privacy and discretion.

Despite Safari's commitment to privacy, there are methods to uncover the private browsing history on a Mac. One approach involves accessing the system files where Safari stores browsing data. However, this method requires technical expertise and poses potential risks to the stability and security of the operating system if not executed with caution.

Alternatively, users can explore the browsing history from a different perspective by examining the data stored by the internet service provider or network administrator. This avenue, though, may not be readily accessible to all users and could raise privacy and ethical considerations.

Another viable option for Mac users is to leverage third-party software designed to retrieve deleted or hidden data. These tools are capable of scanning the device for traces of browsing history, including data from private browsing sessions. While this method may yield results, it's important to exercise caution and ensure the legitimacy and security of the software being used.

It's essential to approach the quest for private browsing history on a Mac with a clear understanding of the implications and potential limitations. Safari's private browsing feature is intentionally designed to safeguard user privacy, and any attempts to uncover private browsing history should be undertaken with respect for privacy and ethical considerations.

In summary, finding private browsing history on a Mac requires a nuanced approach, taking into account the technical complexities, privacy implications, and ethical considerations involved. While it is possible to explore various methods to uncover private browsing history, it's crucial to prioritize privacy, security, and ethical practices throughout the process.

Finding Private Browsing History on iPhone or iPad

Unearthing the private browsing history on an iPhone or iPad can be a challenging endeavor due to the secure and discreet nature of private browsing in Safari. When a user engages in private browsing on their iOS device, Safari refrains from recording the visited websites, searches, or any other browsing activity in the history log. This intentional omission is a fundamental aspect of private browsing, designed to uphold the user's privacy and discretion.

Despite the inherent privacy measures, individuals may seek to access the private browsing history on their iPhone or iPad for various reasons, such as parental monitoring, employee oversight, or personal accountability. While Safari does not provide a direct method to view private browsing history, there are alternative approaches that users can consider.

One potential avenue for uncovering private browsing history on an iPhone or iPad involves utilizing third-party software specifically designed to retrieve deleted or hidden data from iOS devices. These software tools are capable of scanning the device for traces of browsing history, including data from private browsing sessions. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and ensure the legitimacy and security of the software being used, as well as to consider the ethical implications of accessing private browsing data.

Another approach is to explore the browsing history from a different perspective by examining the data stored by the internet service provider or network administrator. This method, however, may not be readily accessible to all users and could raise privacy and ethical considerations.

It's important to approach the quest for private browsing history on an iPhone or iPad with a clear understanding of the implications and potential limitations. Safari's private browsing feature is intentionally designed to safeguard user privacy, and any attempts to uncover private browsing history should be undertaken with respect for privacy and ethical considerations.

In summary, finding private browsing history on an iPhone or iPad requires a nuanced approach, taking into account the technical complexities, privacy implications, and ethical considerations involved. While it is possible to explore various methods to uncover private browsing history, it's crucial to prioritize privacy, security, and ethical practices throughout the process.

In conclusion, the realm of private browsing in Safari unveils a delicate balance between user privacy and the quest to uncover browsing history. The discreet nature of private browsing, whether on a Mac computer or an iPhone/iPad, underscores the significance of privacy and discretion in the digital age. While the allure of uncovering private browsing history may pique curiosity or serve practical purposes, it is essential to approach this endeavor with a deep appreciation for privacy, security, and ethical considerations.

Safari's private browsing feature, known as "Private Browsing," is purposefully designed to shield users' online activities from being recorded in the browsing history, cookies, or other site data. This intentional omission serves as a safeguard, allowing individuals to explore the web without leaving a trace of their online activity on the device. However, the inherent privacy measures also pose challenges for those seeking to access private browsing history for legitimate reasons.

The quest to find private browsing history on a Mac or iOS device requires a nuanced approach, taking into account the technical complexities, privacy implications, and ethical considerations involved. While methods such as accessing system files, leveraging third-party software, or examining data from internet service providers may yield insights into private browsing history, it is crucial to exercise caution and ensure the legitimacy and security of the methods employed.

It is important to emphasize that privacy and ethical considerations should always take precedence when attempting to uncover private browsing history. Users should be mindful of the potential limitations and implications of their actions, respecting the privacy rights of individuals and adhering to ethical practices throughout the process.

Ultimately, the pursuit of private browsing history in Safari serves as a reminder of the intricate interplay between technology, privacy, and ethical conduct. As technology continues to evolve, it is imperative for users to navigate the digital landscape with a deep understanding of privacy, security, and ethical responsibility. By embracing these principles, individuals can engage with technology in a manner that respects privacy rights and upholds ethical standards, fostering a digital environment built on trust, integrity, and respect for individual privacy.

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Safari User Guide

• Change your homepage
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Use Private Browsing in Safari on Mac

When you browse privately , the details of your browsing aren’t saved, and the websites you visit aren’t shared with your other devices.

Open Safari for me

Browse privately one time

When you use a private window:

Browsing initiated in one tab is isolated from browsing initiated in another tab, so websites you visit can’t track your browsing across multiple sessions.

Webpages you visit and your AutoFill information aren’t saved.

Your open webpages aren’t stored in iCloud, so they aren’t shown when you view all your open tabs from other devices.

Your recent searches aren’t included in the results list when you use the Smart Search field.

Items you download aren’t included in the downloads list. (The items do remain on your computer.)

If you use Handoff , private windows aren’t passed to your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or other Mac computers.

Changes to your cookies and website data aren’t saved.

Websites can’t modify information stored on your device, so services normally available at such sites may work differently until you use a non-private window.

Note: None of the above applies in non-private Safari windows you may have open.

Always browse privately

Click the “Safari opens with” pop-up menu, then choose “A new private window.”

Stop browsing privately

Delete any items you downloaded while using private windows.

Close any other private windows that are still open, to prevent other people from using the Back and Forward buttons to see pages you visited in them.

Besides using private windows, you can manage cookies and data stored by all websites and prevent cross-site tracking .

If you forget to use a private window, you can clear your browsing history .