OTHER WAYS TO STAUNCH THE DATA LEAK

The best way to limit Google's data collection is to delete your account, but you needn't go that far
to staunch the flow. Can't live without Gmail or Maps? You can limit some of the collection by
switching to some non-Google products and services where it suits you. For example, ditch Chrome
for Firefox or Brave. Use DuckDuckGo rather than Google Search. If you can afford it, ditch your
Android for an iPhone. And so on.

You can delete your account entirely – but even then, Google may still keep tracking you via what
one report called "passive data", though Google said it doesn't tie your name or other identifiable
details to that profile.

Because of that, a more proactive approach may be necessary even for those without Google
accounts. As with any online activity, ad blockers such as AdBlock Plus and privacy extensions like
Disconnect or Ghostery will stop surveillance systems such as cookies and social trackers. On
Android, the Firefox Focus browser has such tools built in; on desktop, consider the Brave browser.

More great stories from WIRED

– The games industry should be worried about Google Stadia

– How the petition to revoke Article 50 went viral

– I tried to keep my baby secret from Facebook and Google

– Care about online privacy? Then change your phone number

Nicole Kobie is a WIRED contributing editor.

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

TOPICS

PRIVACY

SECURITY
GOOGLE

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