DuckDuckGo, an internet search engine that prioritizes the privacy of users over everything else, has recently crossed 100 million daily searches. Launched in 2008, the search engine was created to help users to use the internet securely. The search engine is different from other search engines like Google because it does not collect user data to provide tailored content/ads. In its 12 year journey, the search engine has grown leaps and bounds.
DuckDuckGo overview
The search engine has a simple purpose. It just wants to help users search for stuff online without violating their privacy. CEO and Creator of DuckDuckGo, Gabriel Weinberg once said, “By default, DuckDuckGo does not collect or share personal information. That is our privacy policy in a nutshell.”
DuckDuckGo’s stance on privacy
It might be surprising for some people to hear DuckDuckGo doing so well despite Google’s success. Well, DuckDuckGo’s stance on privacy is what sets it apart from all. The search engine supports anonymous use of the web because it does not store the IP address of the users.
And, because it does not have any information about the user, it does not create any data design of the user. It also users cookies only when necessary, in a way that does not lead to the user. The search engine does not manipulate search results to its users, unlike Google, which collects user information to filter search results.
DuckDuckGo’s features
DuckDuckGo has all the features that Google has, except it is secure. Users can search for places, Wikipedia search, cafes, restaurants, news, images, flight information, calculator, etc. Users can also use other search engines with a feature called ‘Bangs’. This feature takes users to the search engine of their choice with simple shortcuts.
Users can also customize their search experience and set default language and region. The search engine blocks trackers and has minimal ads.
DuckDuckGo is getting recognition because there is growing concern over companies tracking and spying on users for their gain. The need for secure platforms has been growing rapidly. Platforms that respect the privacy of users like Signal and Telegram are benefitting from this issue and now DuckDuckGo is getting rewarded too.