Stop Google From Listening To You
So, Some of us are more paranoid than others about what our phones are listening to and what they do with that information. Advertisers and data brokers know so much about you … They don’t need to listen to discover your secrets. Still, you better believe it’s happening. Worry not. I’m looking out for your security and privacy – because we all know Big Tech companies aren’t.
I feel like somebody’s watchin’ me
A hidden feature in your Google account is snatching up audio recordings from your web and app activity, interactions with digital assistants, and more.
Google claims that they’re only listening to our conversations for command recognition and to improve marketing efforts. However, this breach of privacy could lead to much more serious issues.
If a cybercriminal manages to hack into your Google account or smart devices, they could access your stored audio and voice data. From there, things can take a turn for the worse. Imagine artificial intelligence creating voice clones that can access your sensitive accounts, scam your loved ones, or even commit more severe crimes.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent this invasion of privacy. Here’s how you can stop Google from eavesdropping:
- Turn Off Voice & Audio Activity: Go to your Google account settings, find the “Data & Personalization” section, and turn off “Voice & Audio Activity.”
- Review and Delete Recordings: Regularly review and delete any voice recordings stored in your account. This can be done under “My Activity” in your Google account settings.
- Manage Permissions: Check the permissions granted to your Google Assistant and other smart devices. Ensure that only necessary permissions are enabled.
- Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication: Protect your Google account with a strong password and enable two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security.
By taking these precautions, you can better protect your privacy and prevent unauthorized access to your personal information.
Digital earmuffs
Google is intelligent, but you’re in control. Follow these steps to protect your privacy easily on your smartphone:
- Open the Google app on your phone.
- Go to “Manage Your Google Account” and select the “Data and Privacy” tab. Scroll to “History Settings.”
- Select “Web & App Activity.” You’ll likely see a blue checkmark next to the voice and audio activity setting. Uncheck it.
Once you’ve done this, audio recordings from your interactions with Google Search, Assistant, and Maps will no longer be saved to your Google account or Google’s servers.
However, this change won’t delete any previously saved audio recordings. You’ll need to handle those separately.
To delete individual items:
- Open your Google Account.
- Click “Data and Privacy.”
- Under “History Settings,” click “Web & App Activity.”
- Click “Manage Activity” to review your past activities. Items with a mic icon include a recording.
By following these steps, you can ensure your audio interactions with Google remain private.
◾ Next to the item you want to delete, select More, then Delete.
Delete all items at once:
◾ Open your Google Account.
◾ Click Data and Privacy.
◾ Under History Settings, click Web & App Activity.
◾ Click Manage activity to review a list of your past activities. Items with a mic icon include a recording.
◾ Above your activity, click Delete, then All time. Follow the on-screen instructions.
NOTE: These steps will delete all your web and app activity associated with your Google account, not just items, including a recording.
Do not disturb
While you’re at it, check for other apps that might be listening in. Let’s start with iPhone:
◾ Open Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone.
◾ On the next screen, review the list of apps. Toggle the switch off to block an app from accessing your mic.
Got an Android? Follow these steps:
◾ Swipe down from the top of the screen to go to Settings.
◾ Tap the gear icon > Privacy > Permission Manager.
◾ Review the list and turn off anything you don’t want using your mic.
Take a breather after a few minutes of work—you’ve earned it.
For insights into the latest technology, tune into the Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim answers calls and offers advice on navigating today’s digital landscape, covering everything from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data security. To get her daily tips, free newsletters, and more, visit her website.