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How to stop Google from listening to your every word

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5 months ago

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How to stop Google from listening to your every word

Kim Komando
 |  Special to USA TODAY

Some of us are more paranoid than others about what our phones are listening to and what they do with that information.

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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 says they’re only listening in for commands and to boost marketing efforts. But this breach of your privacy could lead to way more significant problems.

If a cybercriminal hacks into your Google account or smart devices, they can get their hands on your stored audio and voice data – and it’s all downhill from there. We’re talking about artificial intelligence voice clones that can gain access to your sensitive accounts, scam your loved ones, or worse.

Luckily, there’s a way you can stop the madness. Here’s how to block Google from eavesdropping.

Digital earmuffs

Google is smart, but you’re smarter. Follow these steps to protect your privacy. It’s easy on your phone:

◾ Open the Google app on your smartphone.

◾ Click Manage Your Google Account and select the Data and Privacy tab, then scroll to History Settings.

◾ Select Web & App activity. You may notice a blue checkmark next to the voice and audio activity setting. Uncheck it.

Now, like magic, audio recordings from your interactions with Google Search, Assistant and Maps aren’t saved to your Google account. They won’t get saved on Google’s servers, either. Phew.

However, this will not wipe any previously saved audio recordings. You will have to take care of that separately.

Delete one item at a time:

◾ 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.

◾ 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.

Phew. A few minutes of work, and now you can rest a little easier.

Learn about all the latest technology on the Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website.

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