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How to Block Websites in Incognito Mode

Incognito mode, also known as private browsing, is a feature in web browsers that allows users to browse the internet without saving their browsing history, cookies, site data, and information entered in forms. When incognito mode is enabled, it essentially makes the user’s browsing session private.

However, incognito mode does not make a user completely anonymous online. Internet service providers can still see all traffic, and visited websites can still track IP addresses. Also, incognito mode only applies to the browser it is enabled in. It does not prevent monitoring software or parental control filters installed on a device from recording a user’s activity.

Why Block Websites in Incognito Mode?

There are a few key reasons why someone may want to restrict access to certain websites in incognito mode:

  • Limit Distractions: Teachers, parents, employers, etc. may want to block access to time-wasting sites like social media and gaming sites, even in incognito mode. This helps minimize digital distractions.
  • Enforce Restrictions: Parental control apps may not work properly in incognito mode since browsing history is not saved. Blocking sites directly in the browser ensures restrictions are enforced.
  • Prevent Access to Inappropriate Content: Users themselves may want to block adult-only or gambling websites to avoid temptation. This can be useful for those struggling with addictions.

Methods to Block Sites in Incognito Mode

There are several methods available to block websites in Chrome’s or Firefox’s incognito mode:

1. Use a Browser Extension

Browser extensions like BlockSite are the easiest way to block sites in incognito mode. After installing:

  • Click the extension icon in the toolbar
  • Go to “Options”
  • Toggle on “Enable in Incognito Mode”
  • Add sites to block to the extension dashboard

The sites will now be blocked in all browser modes.

2. Use Router Settings

Block sites at the router level using parental control settings. This will block sites on all devices connected to the network, including in incognito mode. Steps:

  • Log in to the router admin console
  • Navigate to parental control settings
  • Add URLs to be blocked
  • Save settings

3. Edit Hosts File

The hosts file maps domain names to IP addresses. Adding entries prevents devices from accessing those sites:

On Windows:

  1. Open Notepad as administrator
  2. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc
  3. Open the hosts file
  4. Add 127.0.0.1 websiteURL to block access

On Mac:

  1. Open Terminal
  2. Edit the hosts file with sudo nano /etc/hosts
  3. Add 127.0.0.1 websiteURL to block access

Save the file when done. This will block sites in all browsers and modes.

4. Use Parental Control Software

Robust parental control tools like Qustodio and Net Nanny can block sites system-wide, including incognito mode. They offer:

  • Cross-platform support
  • Mobile apps
  • Website and app blocking
  • Activity reports
  • Time limits
  • Location tracking

While paid, they provide comprehensive restrictions and monitoring.

Bypassing Website Blocks in Incognito Mode

Some tech-savvy users may attempt to bypass the blocking methods above in incognito mode. Here are some of the techniques they may use and how to prevent them:

Using a VPN: VPNs route traffic through remote servers, hiding a user’s IP address and location. Block VPNs at the router level or using firewall software.

DNS Proxy Websites: Sites like Hidester route traffic through their own DNS servers to bypass blocks. Disable incognito mode itself via group policy editor in Windows or terminal commands in Mac.

Portable Browsers: Browsers like Tor can be launched from USB drives and may bypass restrictions. Block relevant executable files using endpoint protection tools.

Reset Router: Blocking at the router level can be bypassed by resetting the router to factory settings. Set up router admin account with a strong password only you know.

Modifying Hosts File: Blocks added to the hosts file can be removed by editing the file again. Set folder and file permissions to prevent manual editing of the hosts file.

Conclusion

There are good reasons to block website access in incognito mode, and modern tools provide several ways to set up these blocks:

  • Browser Extensions: Simplest method that works directly within Chrome or Firefox
  • Router Controls: Block sites network-wide on all connected devices
  • Hosts File: Prevents domain name resolution system-wide
  • Parental Control Apps: Comprehensive restrictions for cross-platform enforcement

Be aware that tech-savvy users have a few tricks to bypass these blocks. But you can prevent these bypass techniques by taking a few countermeasures.

Blocking sites in incognito mode takes a bit more effort than normal browsing restrictions. But ultimately, it allows you to enforce internet safety and security even when users browse privately. Implementing the right website blocking method for your needs goes a long way in minimizing issues caused by inappropriate or distracting web content.

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