Introduction 

DuckDuckGo's privacy policy is centered around not tracking users or collecting their personal data. They don't save or share your search or browsing history, and any information your device sends is used temporarily and not stored alongside your searches. They aim to provide a privacy-oriented alternative to other search engines and online services that track and profile users. 

Additionally, they monetize through private search ads based on the search results page you're viewing, not your personal information. DuckDuckGo also offers optional privacy-protecting features that require minimal personal information to function, and any such information is handled securely​​.

DuckDuckGo’s privacy practices

DuckDuckGo's privacy practices emphasize not tracking users' activities or collecting personal data without consent. Here's a detailed breakdown of its privacy policy:

• No Tracking Policy: DuckDuckGo stresses a no-tracking policy, stating explicitly that they do not track users or save or share search or browsing history when using their platform or extensions​. 

• Temporary Information Usage: While some information is automatically sent by the user's device (like IP address, browser type, etc.), DuckDuckGo only uses this information temporarily to deliver content and ensure the user isn't a malicious bot. They don't save IP addresses or unique identifiers alongside searches or website visits​. 

• Anonymity: The service emphasizes anonymity, explaining that while they might know the number of searches for a specific term, they have no way to know who performed those searches​. 

• Content Delivery: DuckDuckGo calls for content on behalf of users from their servers to prevent hosting and content providers from creating a history of users' searches and browsing. They ensure that the content is securely delivered through an end-to-end encrypted connection​. 

• Privacy-Protecting Features: DuckDuckGo offers optional features that require limited personal information to function, ensuring transparency about what information is needed and how it will be used​. 

• Private Search Ads: They monetize through private search ads based on the search results page being viewed, not on personal information. Ad clicks are managed by Microsoft's ad network, which has committed not to associate ad-click behavior with a user profile​. 

• DuckDuckGo Privacy Essentials: DuckDuckGo also offers a browser extension called DuckDuckGo Privacy Essentials, which enhances users' privacy online across various web browsers​. 

• Concerns: Despite these privacy measures, there have been concerns. For instance, a security researcher pointed out that DuckDuckGo made a deal that resulted in not blocking all Microsoft trackers, and DuckDuckGo pulls its search results from other services, primarily Bing. Clicking on a Microsoft-provided link could expose users to Microsoft's tracking​. 

• Privacy Beyond Search: DuckDuckGo has expanded its privacy protections beyond search, as seen with their apps and extensions that offer protection when browsing the web, reading emails, and using other apps​. 

Through these practices, DuckDuckGo provides a more private alternative to other search engines that track users' activities and data. Users who prioritize privacy may find DuckDuckGo's practices appealing. 

However, it's important to note that while DuckDuckGo provides a level of privacy, it isn't entirely foolproof as pointed out in some concerns regarding external trackers.

How to contact DuckDuckGo's privacy department?

To contact DuckDuckGo's privacy department regarding user data rights or privacy laws such as GDPR, you can reach out via email at privacy@duckduckgo.com. For inquiries about other matters, it's advisable to contact them through their specified channels to ensure a response. 

Moreover, DuckDuckGo can be contacted by phone at 1-888-395-0534, though this line is toll-free only from the US, and international cell phone roaming charges may apply. They also have a mailing address: 20 Paoli Pike, Paoli, Pennsylvania 19301, USA. 

For GDPR matters specifically within the EU, their representative is GRCI Law Limited, located at The Mill, Newtown Link Rd, Stagreenan, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 CD3D, Ireland

How to delete your data from DuckDuckGo?

According to their privacy policy, you can email DuckDuckGo at privacy@duckduckgo.com to make delete requests. PrivacyHawk can also help identify companies that have your personal data and makes it easy to mass delete yourself to reduce your digital footprint and reduce your risk of being targeted by scams, fraud, and identity theft. You can try it for free on the App Store today.