DuckDuckGo Introduces End-to-End Encrypted Sync & Backup Feature
The developers of the DuckDuckGo browser have launched a new Sync & Backup feature, protected by end-to-end encryption. This allows users to securely sync bookmarks, passwords, and Email Protection settings across multiple devices.
Sync & Backup does not require users to create an account or log in to an existing one. Thanks to end-to-end encryption, DuckDuckGo has no access to the data being transferred.
How to Sync Data Across Devices
To sync data between different devices running DuckDuckGo, open the browser settings, select Sync & Backup, and go to the “Sync With Another Device” section. A page will appear with a QR code and a text code that can be used for synchronization. Mobile devices can scan the QR code, while desktop users will need to enter the provided alphanumeric code.
Additionally, the browser generates a PDF document containing recovery codes. These codes are necessary to regain access to your data if your main device is lost or stolen, or when adding new devices.
“Your recovery code contains a unique, locally generated encryption key that protects your data from everyone, including us,” DuckDuckGo explains. “If you lose your devices, the recovery code is the only way to access your data from a new phone or computer.”
Availability and Security
The new feature is available in the latest version of the DuckDuckGo browser for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Synchronization works only between devices running these operating systems.
The DuckDuckGo team notes that one of the biggest challenges users face when switching from Chrome or other browsers is transferring passwords, bookmarks, and data without exposing them. The new sync and backup system makes moving data to new devices private and secure.
“Our built-in password manager stores and encrypts your passwords locally on your device. Our private sync uses end-to-end encryption,” DuckDuckGo says. “When using private sync, your data remains securely encrypted throughout the entire process, since the unique key needed to decrypt it is stored only on your devices. Your passwords are completely inaccessible to anyone but you—including us: DuckDuckGo cannot access your data.”
Additional Security Measures
To prevent third parties from accessing someone else’s Sync & Backup settings and syncing their device with another person’s DuckDuckGo, a sync password must be entered, as shown in the screenshot below.