DuckDuckGo is a search engine developed by Gabriel Weinberg and his team at DuckDuckGo Inc. since 2008. Its main focus is on user privacy and data security. Unlike Google, DuckDuckGo does not track search activity, store IP addresses, or build user profiles based on search history.

In the United States, DuckDuckGo is the second most popular search engine after Google, recording over 98 million daily searches in 2023. Its growth accelerated thanks to integrations with browsers like Firefox and Safari, as well as availability on both Android and iOS platforms.

Key Features of DuckDuckGo

DuckDuckGo offers a variety of features designed to enhance privacy and ease of use, including:

• Maximum Privacy: No search history or personal data is stored.

• Neutral Search Results: No personalization based on user behavior (no filter bubble).

• “!Bang” Feature: Allows users to quickly search specific sites like Wikipedia, Amazon, or YouTube by typing special commands (!w, !a, !yt).

• Simple Interface: Clean design with minimal intrusive ads.

• Extra Protection: Blocks hidden trackers on many websites through its browser extension and app.

Advantages of DuckDuckGo Over Google

DuckDuckGo offers several advantages that Google does not, such as:

• Stronger Privacy: No user tracking involved.

• Unbiased Search Results: All users get the same search results.

• Fewer Targeted Ads: Does not use user data to display interest-based ads.

• Fast and Lightweight: Quick performance due to the absence of heavy additional features.

• Easy to Use: Accessible across platforms without the need to log in or create an account.

Disadvantages of DuckDuckGo

Despite its strengths, DuckDuckGo also has several drawbacks:

• Less Accurate Search Results: Not as comprehensive as Google, especially for local or complex searches.

• Lacks Additional Services: Does not offer integrated services like Google Maps, Gmail, or Google Drive.

• Limited Customization: No personalization based on user data.

• Fewer Advanced Features: Lacks tools like voice search or visual search (Google Lens).

• Smaller Service Ecosystem: Not integrated with major platforms like Android, YouTube, or Google Photos.

Why Was DuckDuckGo Blocked in Indonesia?

In January 2024, the Indonesian government blocked access to DuckDuckGo, citing its use as a gateway to illegal content such as online gambling and pornography. This move aligns with the government’s efforts to combat nearly 600,000 illegal gambling websites and crack down on over 5,000 related bank accounts.

Indonesia enforces strict internet content regulations. Previously, platforms like Reddit, Vimeo, Tumblr, TikTok, and Netflix have also faced blocks or restrictions for similar reasons.

DuckDuckGo is a suitable search engine for users who prioritize privacy and unbiased results. However, its limited search accuracy, lack of integrated features, and the risk of being used to access prohibited content have sparked controversy in several countries, including Indonesia.

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