Method for Preventing Google from Monitoring Your Device
In the digital age, concerns about privacy are at an all-time high. One of the most prominent companies under scrutiny is Google, which collects vast amounts of data from its users. However, there are steps you can take to limit Google's tracking on your iPhone and Android devices.
On iPhone (iOS 14.5 and above)
To start, navigate to Settings > Privacy & Security > Tracking and toggle off “Allow Apps to Request to Track”. This prevents apps from tracking you or asking permission for it.
Next, manage location services by going to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services. Here, you can either turn off location services entirely or selectively per app.
If available, limiting ad tracking can be done in Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising.
To further secure your data, consider using a VPN that blocks ads and trackers to encrypt traffic and hide your IP address.
On Android (Android 12 and above)
On Android, turn off location services fully in Settings > Location, or restrict location access per app by selecting an app in this menu and choosing "Don't Allow" for location access.
To opt out of ad personalization, go to Settings > Google > Ads and toggle on “Opt out of Ads Personalization”. Unfortunately, there is no system-wide "Ask apps not to track" toggle like on iOS, but you can still improve privacy by limiting app permissions.
Consider using privacy-focused VPN apps to block trackers and mask your IP.
Additional Recommendations
Beyond these steps, consider disabling or limiting Google services and apps wherever possible. Use privacy-respecting alternatives for email, browser, and search to avoid Google data collection. Regularly review app permissions and remove unnecessary apps that may track your activity.
By combining these settings, you significantly reduce Google tracking on iPhone and Android devices. However, some Google services may still collect data if used. For total avoidance, minimize or avoid use of Google accounts and apps.
It's important to note that disabling ad personalization on Google's Data & Personalization page does not affect the number of ads you see or the amount of information Google collects. Instead, it only affects the ads you see, not their quantity.
For those who value their privacy above all else, the loss of personalized ads may be worth it. However, it's crucial to remember that disabling location services does not mean Google can't still store some location data in other settings, such as web and app activity. Therefore, it's essential to be vigilant and proactive in managing your privacy settings.
Recent lawsuits filed by several states against Google in January highlight the need for users to take control of their data. By following these steps, you can take a significant step towards protecting your privacy and maintaining control over your digital footprint.
Technology plays a crucial role in global trade and logistics, particularly with the rise of data-and-cloud-computing and automation. However, concerns about privacy persist, especially in relation to companies like Google, which collect vast amounts of data. To improve privacy, one can limit Google's tracking on iPhone and Android devices by disabling ad personalization, managing location services, and using privacy-focused VPN apps. Furthermore, reducing the use of Google services and apps, and opting for privacy-respecting alternatives, can further secure personal data.
