Google has found itself in hot water, after a new investigation found that it continued to track smartphone users’ locations even after they thought they’d switch location tracking off.
While the Big G has denied any wrongdoing, it’s an issue that has got many privacy campaigners worried.
So, what can you do to ensure your location isn’t shared? And how did we get here in the first place? Read on and we’ll give you the lowdown.
What’s the problem?
An investigation by AP found that even after users had turned off location tracking on their iPhones and Android devices, Google was still collecting data about their whereabouts.
While the likes of Google Maps uses location data to improve traffic information and details on how busy certain business are, the opt out is meant to prevent these situations from occurring.
So, what apps are still collecting data?
Researchers say Maps, weather updates and even searches for things unrelated to location are being handed to Google without users’ express permission.
“If you’re going to allow users to turn off something called ‘Location History’, then all the places where you maintain location history should be turned off,” said Princeton’s Jonathan Mayer, who corroborated the findings of AP.
What does Google have to say?
Google’s own website says, “You can turn off Location History at any time. With Location History off, the places you go are no longer stored.” But in a statement, it defended the fact that this wasn’t strictly true.
“There are a number of different ways that Google may use location to improve people’s experience, including: Location History, Web and App Activity, and through device-level Location Services. We provide clear descriptions of these tools, and robust controls so people can turn them on or off, and delete their histories at any time.”
What’s the reaction been?
In the U.S. lawmakers have reacted with fury, suggesting Google has breached user trust and privacy by not making its position clear. Some have claimed it only does so to improve its ad revenue by serving location–based ads within searches.
How can you turn location tracking off for good?
This issue affects both Android devices and iPhones that use Google services. If you’re worried, here’s what you need to do.
For Android owners, go to Settings, then Google, then Google Account. Hit the Data and Personalisation button followed by web and app activity. In here you’ll find a toggle you can switch off, preventing the Big G from seeing where you are even if you’ve switched off location history.
To turn off the latter as well, look in the Data and Personalisation menu and toggle off Location History.
Turning this feature off on an iPhone requires users to enter their Google account. This can be done by opening Google, tapping your profile and choosing Google Account. In the Personal Info and Privacy tab you’ll find My Activity. This will give access to Activity Controls and the chance to turn off web and app activity.
