More than 30% of internet users have used a VPN in the past month, according to the latest statistics. While many assume anonymous browsing is primarily about hiding illegal activity, new internal data analysis by Webshare.io reveals the surprising reality of what Americans actually access privately online. Webshare experts have identified website categories that generate the highest volumes of anonymous traffic requests.
Entertainment Streaming
Streaming has replaced adult content as the top reason Americans browse anonymously online. People want privacy while watching shows and movies without internet providers tracking their viewing habits. Our data shows over 3.8 billion requests for streaming platforms, making entertainment the clear leader in anonymous browsing.
Social Media and News Access
Social media browsing without being tracked has become a major priority for privacy-conscious Americans. People use anonymous connections to browse Facebook, Twitter, and news sites without having every click monitored for targeted advertising. Our internal data shows over 3 billion requests for social media and news platforms as users try to prevent tech companies from building detailed profiles of their interests and opinions.
E-commerce Shopping
Savvy shoppers have discovered that retailers track browsing habits to manipulate prices. People use anonymous connections to prevent websites from showing higher prices based on previous searches or perceived purchasing power. Our internal data shows over 2 billion requests for e-commerce platforms as Americans protect their payment information and avoid dynamic pricing algorithms.
Travel and Booking Sites
Price discrimination hits hardest in travel, where the same flight can cost hundreds more depending on where you search from. Travelers use anonymous connections to compare rates across different countries and prevent booking sites from inflating prices based on search history. This generates over 1 billion requests as people refuse to pay extra simply because airlines detect multiple searches for the same route.
The Expert Take
“Online privacy has become essential for Americans,” says Justas Bagdonavicius, Head of Webshare.io. “Most people just want to browse without being constantly watched and manipulated. The internet used to feel open and free, but now every website tracks your location, monitors your habits, and restricts what you can access. Anonymous browsing has become the new normal as people reclaim their right to privacy online.”
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