Unfortunately not permanently at the user level. Once you delete your browser's search history locally, it's typically gone. However, it's important to understand the nuances of data retention by Google.
Here's a breakdown:
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Local Browser History: This is the search history stored directly on your computer or device by your web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari). Deleting this history through your browser settings generally removes it from that specific browser. As stated in the provided source, retrieval would likely require restoring from a previous backup of your Chrome files.
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Google Account Activity: If you're logged into your Google account while searching, Google does track your search activity, as well as YouTube history, location history, and other data. This is stored in your Google account's "Activity Controls."
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Deleting Activity: You can delete individual items or entire date ranges of activity from your Google account. To do this, go to your Google Account Activity page and manage your activity.
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Retention Policies: Google retains data according to its privacy policies. Although you can delete items manually, Google might retain anonymized or aggregated versions of your data for longer periods for internal purposes, such as improving search algorithms. This aggregate data can't be tied back to an individual user.
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Law Enforcement/Legal Requests: Google, like any large company, may be legally compelled to retain or provide data in response to valid legal requests from law enforcement or other government entities.
Key Considerations:
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Syncing: If you're signed into Chrome and have syncing enabled, deleting history on one device will delete it across all synced devices.
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Incognito Mode: Using Incognito mode (or Private Browsing in other browsers) prevents your search history from being saved locally or to your Google account (unless you sign in while using Incognito mode).
In summary, while you can delete your browser history and Google account activity, Google may retain anonymized or aggregated data. Your locally deleted browser history is generally unrecoverable without backups.
