DuckDuckGo introduced a new data backup and syncing feature on its web browser that uses end-to-end encryption to keep the data protected.

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.

  • bushparty@sh.itjust.works
    0·
    9 months ago

    This is not true. A 2-min look shows they are a Swiss-based, private search engine that does not serve ads (on mobile only apparently) and has its own web index, but also uses Bing’s web index.

    Apparently, they do serve adds on desktop but they’re based on anonymous search results and I presume having UBlock installed would resolve this.

    Medium has a whole write-up here: https://medium.com/secure-words/try-swisscows-privacy-search-for-mobile-what-are-you-waiting-for-e616dd828328

    • edric@lemm.ee
      0·
      9 months ago

      I just got that from the website itself, unless I’m misreading it:

      image

      • bushparty@sh.itjust.works
        0·
        9 months ago

        I believe you are correct. However, only on desktop. The Medium article specifically states they do not use ads on mobile so I believe ads are only on desktop. I typically use on mobile and have not seen any ads, nor on my non-mobile Firefox config when using SwissCows. Again, the ads are based on anonymous search results and in terms of relevant search results, at least in my testing, SwissCows far surpassed competitors.