I use DuckDuckGo with Virtual Private Network activated for private searches… Google is the search engine I use. I am aware that Google is a privacy-invading search engine and gathers a lot of data. However, even if Google gathers the data, it won’t know it’s me because I’m using a Virtual Private Network and dukduckgo as my browser—my IP address isn’t my actual one.
Most cookies are blocked by Duckduckgo, and after you’re done surfing, clicking the fire button erases all cookies and cache, leaving your browser looking brand-new if it was just downloaded from the App Store.
This should address your question since you can see what the DDG browser leaks in comparison to other browsers.
yet generally DDG browser is significantly superior than firefox , edge and chrome , vivaldi and opera are actually fairly awful and regards opera even worse than standard edge and chrome.
I use ddg. But I utilize the DDG browser’s built-in Google search engine. But since I always have a VPN open, Google will never be able to identify the data it receives as coming from me because my IP address is hidden. Is there anything that violates someone’s privacy in my setup?
As you can see, regardless of the IP address you use, the Ddg browser leaks a lot of data points (albeit fewer than Edge, Chrome, and Opera). This means that you might be 100% unique and readily fingerprinted.
But since I’m using a VPN, Google is unaware that it’s my data. Is it really worth caring so much as long as Google is unable to identify the source of the data?
Unless you are utilizing a browser that prevents fingerprinting, every Google search leaves a trace, allowing them to identify you and sell your information whenever they like.
I’m aware of just two browsers that prevent fingerprinting: Librewolf and Mullivad. However, since every other browser does, Google is able to collect and sell your search history, revealing personal information about you.
If you want to prevent this from happening, cease using Google as your search engine.
I see what you’re getting at. You’re using DuckDuckGo with a VPN, which definitely helps with privacy. But yeah, Google is notorious for data collection.
You’re right that your real IP is hidden with a VPN, but don’t forget Google can still track based on other factors like your search habits, browser fingerprinting, or even device info. DuckDuckGo does block most cookies, but it’s not 100% foolproof against everything Google tries to use for tracking.
Just to add: DuckDuckGo is solid for privacy, but if you really wanna avoid Google data collection, you might wanna switch up your search engine too. Like, why use Google if you’re worried about their data-gathering tactics? Maybe try Startpage – it gives you Google results but without the tracking. Or just stick with DuckDuckGo for searches too!
Honestly, you’re on the right track with VPN + DuckDuckGo. But even with those, if you’re signed into any Google account while using their search engine, your activity can still be linked back to you, VPN or not.
And yeah, browser fingerprinting is real, like everyone said, so no system is 100% foolproof. You gotta stay vigilant.
Exactly! Even though your IP is masked by the VPN, Google’s still pretty slick at grabbing info in other ways, like browser version, screen resolution, fonts, etc. That’s called “fingerprinting,” and it’s freakishly accurate.
DuckDuckGo and the fire button help, but it’s not a magic shield. I’d say it’s more about reducing your footprint rather than completely disappearing.
You’re using DuckDuckGo with a VPN, which definitely helps with privacy. But yeah, Google is notorious for data collection. 
Maybe try Startpage – it gives you Google results but without the tracking. Or just stick with DuckDuckGo for searches too! 
But even with those, if you’re signed into any Google account while using their search engine, your activity can still be linked back to you, VPN or not. 
Even though your IP is masked by the VPN, Google’s still pretty slick at grabbing info in other ways, like browser version, screen resolution, fonts, etc. That’s called “fingerprinting,” and it’s freakishly accurate. 
