Google is recording your voice – here’s how to stop it
In today’s episode of “I always feel like somebody’s watchin’ me,” our “close friend” Google is recording our voices. And, of course, they’re being sneaky about it.
Yep, a hidden feature in your Google account is snatching up audio recordings from your web and app activity, interactions with digital assistants, and more.
Worry not, friend. I’m looking out for your security and privacy — because we all know Big Tech companies aren’t.
Who’d a thunk it?
Google says they’re only listening in for commands and to boost marketing efforts (eye roll). But this breach of your privacy isn’t an innocent one.
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 AI 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 we’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 down to History Settings.
- Select Web & App activity. You may notice there’s 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 aAccount. They won’t get saved on Google’s servers, either. Phew.
But this won’t wipe any previously saved audio recordings. You’ll have to take care of that separately. Here’s how.
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 of your web and app activity associated with your Google account, not just items that include 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 clicks and now you can rest a little easier. See, aren’t you glad you read this free newsletter?
👂 The other day, Barry looked at me and said, “You weren’t even listening, were you?” And I thought, “Huh, that’s a pretty weird way to start a conversation.” (Was that a groan?)
Tags: Android, Google, iPhone, security
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