Reduces saved history
Pages visited in the private session are generally not added to the browser's normal history list.
Private browsing guide
Private browsing helps, but it does not make you invisible.
Private or incognito windows can reduce what is left behind in your browser after you finish. They do not hide activity from websites, internet providers, employers, device monitoring software or someone who can already access your device.
Private window
Private browsing is active
Your browser may avoid saving local history, cookies and form information after this window is closed.
Close every private tab when finished.
Reduces local history
Does not hide your IP address
Does not stop screenshots
Does not remove device malware
What it does
Private browsing mainly controls what stays in the browser.
When the private window is closed, the browser will usually remove the local browsing session from normal history and discard temporary cookies created during that session.
Limits retained cookies
Temporary cookies and site data from the session are usually removed after every private window is closed.
Separates sessions
A private window can keep a temporary sign-in separate from the accounts already open in the normal browser window.
What it does not do
Private browsing does not protect against monitoring outside the browser.
It is not a complete privacy system. Your activity may still be visible to the website, the network owner, your internet provider, workplace systems or monitoring software installed on the device.
Your IP address may remain visiblePrivate mode does not normally change the internet address used by your connection.
Downloads may stay on the deviceFiles saved during the session can remain in Downloads or another selected folder.
Bookmarks may remainAnything deliberately saved as a bookmark can still be present after the private window closes.
Screenshots cannot be preventedAnother participant or someone with access to the screen can still capture what is displayed.
Before you begin
- Use a device you trust.
- Open a new private or incognito window.
- Check that no password manager is automatically filling details.
- Make sure screen recording or remote-access software is not running.
- Use the correct Service Assistant address.
Safer access
Use private browsing as one part of a safer routine.
The strongest results come from combining private browsing with a trusted device, secure account habits and careful sign-out.
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Type the address carefullyUse https://www.serviceassistant.com.au and avoid unexpected links.
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Do not save passwords on shared devicesDecline browser prompts to save account details.
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Close every private tabLeaving one private tab open may keep the whole private session active.
Browser instructions
Opening a private window
The name varies by browser, but the purpose is broadly similar.
Google Chrome
Open the menu and choose New Incognito window.
Microsoft Edge
Open the menu and choose New InPrivate window.
Mozilla Firefox
Open the menu and choose New private window.
Apple Safari
Open the File menu and choose New Private Window.
When you finish
Close the session properly.
Signing out is important, but closing the private window is what allows the browser to discard the temporary session data it controls.
1
Log out of Service Assistant.
2
Close every private tab and window.
3
Check the Downloads folder if any files were opened or saved.
4
Lock or sign out of the device if other people can access it.
Common questions
Private browsing FAQs
Does private browsing hide my activity from Service Assistant?
No. A website still needs to receive the information required to provide the service. Private mode mainly changes what the browser stores locally after the window is closed.
Does private browsing hide my IP address?
No. Private browsing alone does not usually hide or replace your internet connection's IP address.
Can someone still take a screenshot?
Yes. Private mode does not stop screenshots, screen recording, cameras or someone viewing the screen directly.
Should I use private browsing on a shared device?
It can reduce local browser history, but a shared device may still be unsafe if it is monitored, compromised or accessible to someone else while the session is open.
Continue learning
Build a safer online routine.
Read the complete Online Safety Guide for practical advice about devices, accounts, internet connections and shared computers.