Internet Explorer 8?s InPrivate Could Block Advertising

Many Internet browsers allow ad-free browsing, but privacy options built into the new version of Internet Explorer could have a large impact on Internet advertising.

The new feature, called "InPrivate Blocking," was designed to allow users to anonymously browse websites and keep their surfing activities private. It has been dubbed ?porn mode? for its most obvious use.

Details of the next Internet Explorer were announced yesterday, and ad industry executives are concerned about some of the privacy options.

Mike Zaneis, vice president of the Interactive Advertising Bureau, told The Washington Post: "It has the potential to undermine the economies of the Internet."

Microsoft did not design the new browser as an ad blocker, but a Microsoft spokesman did acknowledge that ads could get blocked with the new software.