"Files" by Google new feature
So, "Files" by Google added a "feature"... "Smart Search", you can toggle it to off and I recommend you do so.
Toggle the Smart Search to OFF, otherwise, google will search and index every picture, video and document in your device, no exceptions, anything you have ever photographed and you forgot, any document you have downloaded or article, etc...
How this could affect you?
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Google is actively combating child abuse and therefore it has built in its "AI" for searching of material that "IT THINKS" is related to it. Therefore:
- Pictures of you and your children in the beach
- Pictures or videos which are innocent in nature but the "AI" "thinks" are not will be flagged
The flag will get your google account canceled and flag you as a criminal across the digital world
You think this is non sense? Think again:
How to switch it off:
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1.- Open files by Google
2.- Tap on Menu -> Settings
3.- Turn OFF Smart Search
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But if I was you I will do more:
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1.- Stop using google apps, if possible get rid off of Google OS and use Graphene OS
2.- Go to Settings -> Apps
3.- Search for Files by Google
4.- Disable the app
5.- Keep doing that with most Google apps
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Remember, Google keeps advocating for privacy, but as many others have pointed out repeatedly, they are the first ones lobbying for the removal of your privacy by regulation and draconian laws, their hypocrisy knows no limits
Recommendation:
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I would assume you have installed F-Droid in your android, or Obtainium if you are more advanced, if so, consider "Simple File Manager Pro" by Tibor Kaputa, this dev has a suite of apps that are basic needs and the best feature in my opinion is that not one of his apps connect to the internet, contacts, gallery, files, phone, etc.
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Note
- As most people, we all love the convenience of technology, it makes our lives easier, however, our safety and our family safety should go first, between technology being miss-used and abused by corporations and cyber-criminals data mining and checking for easy targets to attack for profit, we need to keep our guard up. Learning is key, resist the use of new tech if you do not understand the privacy trade offs, no matter how appealing and convenient it looks like. .
Please leave your comments with your favorite FOSS Files app!