Lawsuit Claims Perplexity’s “Incognito Mode” Is a Deception

A new lawsuit claims that Perplexity, a popular AI search tool, is lying about its “Incognito Mode.” The lawsuit says this feature is a “sham” because users’ private data is still being shared and tracked, even when in incognito mode.

What Happened to Users’ Privacy?

Some users, like a man named Doe, are unhappy because their private chats about their family’s finances and health were shared with big companies like Google and Meta (owner of Facebook and Instagram). Doe uses Perplexity to help him manage taxes, find legal advice, and make investments. He says he was shocked to learn about the privacy breach and worries about the ongoing harm. If no legal action is taken, he may have to stop using his favorite search tool.

More People Are Affected

The lawsuit suggests many other users also turned to Perplexity for sensitive questions—things about health, legal issues, or personal finances. The lawsuit accuses the companies behind Perplexity of sneaky tracking technology. These trackers allegedly collect and misuse private information to show targeted ads or sell data to third parties.

Using AI for Sensitive Topics Is Risky

Many users turn to AI systems to find health or medical information because they might feel embarrassed asking a human doctor. However, the lawsuit warns that AI platforms like Perplexity often ask users to upload personal records, which could be very private. For example, if someone asks about liver cancer treatment and shares medical reports, that data might be used to target them with upsetting ads or sold to third parties.

Trackers Are Hidden in the Service

The lawsuit points out that Perplexity’s website and app have advanced trackers from Meta and Google embedded inside. These include technologies like the Facebook Meta Pixel, Google Ads, Google Double Click, and possibly Meta’s “Conversions API.” The lawsuit claims that Meta promotes using the Conversions API as a way to avoid blocking trackers, making it easy for companies to monitor user activity.

Why Does This Matter?

Meta and Google have faced previous privacy lawsuits over similar tracking technologies. Some companies have settled these cases, but concerns remain about how user data is collected and shared. The lawsuit argues that Perplexity’s so-called “Incognito Mode” does not keep users’ personal information private as advertised, making it a deceptive tool.

Conclusion

This lawsuit raises important questions about online privacy and the truth behind “incognito” features. Users should be cautious about sharing sensitive information online, especially when using services that may secretly track their data. The case also hints at the need for stronger privacy laws and better protections for internet users.