![\"DuckDuckGo](\"https://restoreprivacy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/DuckDuckGo-Introduces-E2EE-Backup-and-Sync-Feature-on-Browser.jpg\")
DuckDuckGo has just introduced a new data backup and syncing feature on its web browser that uses end-to-end encryption to keep the data protected while in transit and only readable by the owner.
The DuckDuckGo browser is a privacy-focused secure browser available in open beta for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. The project was built from the ground up with privacy and security in mind, so it uses no code parts of other browsers. It features powerful third-party tracker blocking, auto-rejection of cookie consent pop-ups, easy browsing data deletion, and incorporated ‘Email Protection,’ a private relay service for email that blocks trackers.
The project announced today the introduction of a new feature called “Sync & Backup,” which allows users to import bookmarks, passwords, and personal settings from other browsers to DuckDuckGo. Moreover, it enables users to move that data from one device to another or restore it on a new device in case they lose their original device.
DuckDuckGo’s announcement declares that the new feature can do the following:
- Privately sync and access the bookmarks and passwords saved in your DuckDuckGo browsers – including any you’ve imported from other browsers – across multiple devices.
- Back up passwords, bookmarks, and favorites in case your device is lost or damaged.
- Migrate your bookmarks and passwords to a new device.
- Sync your Email Protection account between devices.
The difference between Sync & Backup and the existing “import” system is that the new system is end-to-end encrypted, with the keys stored on the device that generates the backup, from which the data can be either restored or synced to other devices. This means no parties standing in the middle, not even DuckDuckGo, can read the data in transit, ensuring privacy and security.
As for ease of use, Sync & Backup is available right through the browser’s Settings menu (in the latest version) and doesn’t require creating an account or signing in to an existing DuckDuckGo account to use it. Simply choose ‘Sync and Back Up This Device’ from the ‘Single-Device Setup’ section and then use the generated QR code on a mobile device or the alphanumeric code on a desktop computer to sync your data.
![\"\"](\"https://restoreprivacy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/sync.png\")
After the data syncing process is over, the system generates recovery codes in a PDF file that can be stored safely offline and used to retrieve the data snapshot in the event the device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
![\"\"](\"https://restoreprivacy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/recovery.png\")
Although the project has faced criticism for controversial practices in the past, the DuckDuckGo browser remains a solid choice for those who value their privacy and security. If you’re interested in checking it out, make sure to download an installer for your platform from the official site to avoid trojanized versions.
Further reading:
- DuckDuckGo Gives Android Users a Way to Block all Trackers
- Secure Browsers that Protect Your Privacy
- DuckDuckGo Browser Beta Now Available to All Windows Users
- DuckDuckGo Browser Allows Microsoft to Track Users Thanks to Confidential Agreement
- Apple to Introduce Contact Key Verification on the iMessage App
Considering people support this site because of the high regard for research and privacy information, I am not sure why a comment like ” Although the project has faced criticism for controversial practices in the past, the DuckDuckGo browser remains a solid choice for those who value their privacy and security.”
This is a smack in the face for those people who trust this site and its research. It did a deal with a company to track people and justified this by hiding behind a confidentiality agreement, and only because they got caught did they admit to it.
Tell me how you justify this betrayal? They add another feature and they have changed their spots? Shame on you guys
Hello and thanks for your comment,
One thing to note is that the data sharing mechanism we highlighted on that older post regarding DuckDuckGo no longer takes place. That said, we only linked to that post to give readers the full picture. We are among those who scrutinized these past actions closely, being a privacy-promoting platform, and today, we recognize that the company has taken positive steps to address these mistakes. In the end, our goal is to give readers all relevant information, both good and bad, including old and new, to help them make informed decisions.
Regarding why you see this news here, again, as a privacy-promoting platform, Restore Privacy aims to give readers relevant news, and DuckDuckGo is one of the few major trustworthy, partially open-source, free (as in free beer) software providers. Thus, we feel that the introduction of important new features on the browser or extension deserve a piece here.
I hope this clarifies our position and reaffirms our dedication to transparency and trust. We value your engagement and trust in our site, and we’re committed to upholding these principles in every piece of content we produce.
I completely agree with Jetsu.DDG was caught and defended their position as if no big deal.