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What data does Google collect from your smartphone?

When you use your smartphone, Google collects many types of data. If your phone has Location Services activated, Google keeps a record of your travels, such as where you went, how long you stayed there, and your route of travel. Apart from this, details of all the searches you have done on Google are also stored. How many videos you watch on YouTube and for how long you watch them, all these statistics are also to your account.

Google also records your voice when you give the command ‘Ok Google’ or ‘Hey Google’. Additionally, Google tracks which apps you use, and when and how you use them. Overall, this information helps Google provide a more personalized and better experience for you.

How to check?

• Open your phone’s Settings.
• Scroll down and select Google and then tap Manage your Google Account.
• Now go to the Data & Privacy section from the tabs given above.
• Here you will get information like Web & App Activity, Location History, and YouTube History.
• If you want to get into more detail, tap these options to see when, what, and how much data Google has collected.

How to keep your data safe on Google?

Keeping your data secure is not that difficult. You can protect your data by taking a few simple steps:

• By turning off Location History, Google will stop tracking your location.
• By turning on Auto-delete Activity, your data will be automatically deleted after 3, 18, or 36 months.
• Turning off Ad Personalization will result in fewer ads based on your activity.
• You can prevent Google from saving your voice commands and searches by blocking Voice and Audio Activity.