The extent of personal data collected by tech giants like Google is staggering. From your browsing history to your location data and personal preferences, Google gathers a plethora of information to tailor your online experience.
Trevor Cooke, the online privacy expert at EarthWeb, sheds light on the types of user data Google collects and offers insights on how to manage your data footprint responsibly.
What User Data Is Collected by Google?
Google’s data collection spans various aspects of users’ online activities, including:
Browsing History
‘Google meticulously tracks the websites you visit using its search engine, Chrome browser, and other Google services,’ says Trevor. ‘This data helps personalize search results and targeted advertisements.’
Location Data
Through Google Maps and location services, Google records your whereabouts. This allows it to provide location-based recommendations and services but also raises privacy concerns.
Personal Preferences
‘Google analyzes your interactions with its services,’ Trevor notes. ‘This includes YouTube views, Gmail conversations, and app usage, all of which are used to tailor content recommendations and advertisements.’
Device Information
Google collects information about the devices you use, such as hardware specifications, operating system versions, and app installations. This data helps Google optimize performance and provide support.
How To Manage Your Google Data Footprint
While Google’s data collection practices may seem pervasive, users have some control over their data footprint. Trevor provides actionable tips for reviewing and managing your Google data:
Delete Your Activity
Take advantage of Google’s ‘My Activity’ dashboard. Here, you can review and delete your search history, location history, and other activity data. Additionally, enable auto-delete to erase older activity regularly.
Control Your Privacy Settings
You can customize your privacy settings in your Google Account. Disable location tracking, adjust ad personalization preferences, and opt out of data-sharing features where possible. Also, consider enabling two-factor authentication for added security.
Go Incognito
Trevor advises, ‘When browsing the web, use Chrome’s Incognito Mode to prevent Google from saving your browsing history and cookies. This is particularly useful for sensitive searches or when using public computers.’
Banish Personalized Ads
Visit the Ad Settings page in your Google Account. Here, you can opt out of personalized advertising, reducing the amount of data Google uses to target ads to your interests. You can also reset your advertising ID to disassociate it from past activity.
Review Who Has Permissions
Trevor says, ‘Periodically review the permissions granted to third-party apps and services connected to your Google Account. Revoke access to any apps or services that no longer require it.’ Also, consider using Google’s Security Checkup tool to review your account’s security settings.
Just Don’t Use Google
If you want to block Google from your life entirely, explore privacy-focused alternatives to Google services. This includes using DuckDuckGo for search or ProtonMail for email, reducing your reliance on Google’s ecosystem. Trevor recommends, ‘Additionally, consider using privacy-focused browsers like Brave or Firefox Focus.’
