Testing for IP Protection Privacy Feature in Chrome will begin

What is IP Protection in Chrome?

Originally known as “Gnatcatcher,” IP protection aims to obscure users’ actual IP addresses by channeling their internet traffic through privacy proxies. The objective is to curtail cross-site tracking and enhance the security of individual online identities.

Why should users protect their IP Addresses?

The introduction of IP Protection is a response to the increasing worries surrounding stealthy tracking methods that involve the unauthorized use of IP addresses to identify users.

This feature is an integral component of Google’s wider initiative to create a robust privacy framework that caters to user concerns while upholding the web’s functionality and safety.

How Chrome IP Protection Feature Works?

Users who wish to harness this feature will begin by opting in. Once activated, this privacy feature will concentrate on specific domains to track user activities.

Per Bleeping Computer’s information, the initial testing in Phase 0 will encompass only Google-owned domains and IP addresses in the United States. Notable services include Google Voice, Gmail, and all older domains such as orkut.com and plus.google.com.

During Phase 0, Google will introduce a single proxy server owned by the company for the initial routing. Subsequent updates will introduce a more intricate 2-hop proxy system, enhancing privacy measures.

This experimental rollout will happen in phases, allowing for fine-tuning and adaptation. It’s clear that Google depends more on user feedback and taking precautions about implementing this feature.

When will the IP Protection Feature be available for users of Chrome?

As indicated by The Privacy Sandbox’s timeline, IP Protection is in its early or incubation stage.

Google designed a support webpage for Google Chrome Enterprise and Education. The Phase 0 rollout is believed to be live as soon as Chrom 122 comes live.

The Chrome 122 schedule specifies a Beta Promotion date on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, and a Stable Release date on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.

This new feature could substantially change how privacy, online advertising, and tracking intersect.