Google may be harvesting user data from Android phones
Just when the world was trying to get over Facebook's Cambridge Analytica controversy, there is another scandal waiting to blow up. According to a report by The Guardian, the Australian watchdog, Australian Competition and Consumer Commission was looking into the claims made by the software company Oracle that Android devices send detailed information on searches, what is being viewed, and the location data to Google even when the location services are turned off and there is no SIM card in the device. Oracle, in its presentation made to the ACCC, has also revealed that Google can track Android devices through mapped IP addressed, mobile towers and Wi-Fi connections. Furthermore, the software company has revealed that Android devices include a barometer which allow Google to use air pressure to determine a person's exact location inside a multistory building. We use various technologies to determine location, including IP address, GPS, and other sensors that may, for example, provide Google with information on nearby devices, Wi-Fi access points and cell towers," Google states in its privacy policy which is applicable to all the services offered by Google and its affiliates including YouTube, Android devices and services offered on other sites.
Vulnerabilities in GPS smartphone technology could let hackers map home interiors
Google I/O 2021: All Privacy, Security Features Coming to Android, Search and More
Google, Ascension asked to reveal how it is using patient data stored on the cloud
There's no escaping from Google collecting your data or tracking your location
Discover Related
How to protect your device privacy when crossing borders
Trump compares UK's demand for Apple user data to Chinese monitoring
One Tech Tip: How to block your phone from tracking your location
AP Explica: La investigación antimonopolio de China contra Google
Google Maps errors leading to accidents, Indian alternative needed: Rajya Sabha MP
Apple, Google mobile ecosystems targeted by UK watchdog with new digital market powers
Surfshark VPN review 2025: Expert tried and tested
UK watchdog targets Apple, Google mobile ecosystems with new digital market powers
Court rules Android privacy case against Google can go ahead
Is it a smart home camera or a spying device? Study reveals an unsettling reality
Google Maps to delete your location history soon: Know-why
Android ‘Find My Device’ Has Gotten a Major Upgrade. Here’s What’s New
India investigates Google Maps after car plunges off broken bridge killing 3 people
Switching Off This 1 Phone Setting Could Instantly Help Protect Your Safety
China’s Surveillance State Is Selling Citizen Data as a Side Hustle
US govt calls for breakup of Google and Chrome
Many smart devices gathering ‘excessive’ amounts of personal data, says Which?
Google Maps ‘reveals location’ of Ukrainian military positions
Google tools to combat mobile phone theft start rolling out to users
Find my iPhone: Why tracking your partner’s mobile is a slippery slope
Google says it will rethink its plans for a big data center in Chile over water worries
Google Limiting Access To Android Auto Likely To Breach EU Rules, Court Says
Google limits on Android Auto access may breach EU rules, adviser says
Are your calls, texts monitored? Here's truth behind new Telecom Rules viral claim
Google to help build cyber protection for Australian infrastructure
Geofence Warrants Ruled Unconstitutional—but That’s Not the End of It