Android is the world’s most popular mobile operating system. Based on GNU/Linux, Android has come a long way since it was first released to the public, and can now boast being a highly advanced, configurable, and secure operating system that’s used on billions of different devices.

Of course, one of the main problems with Android is that it collects a lot of personal data, especially if it’s a version of Android implemented by companies such as Google. With that in mind, let’s look at different ways a person can limit how much of this data is collected by companies.

Adb Removal

One of the biggest culprits when it comes to data collection is Facebook, and unfortunately, the official Facebook app is often included with most modern phones, and without the ability to uninstall it fully. This is a problem, as even when it’s not logged into an account, this app can still capture and send through personal data, unless it’s blocked by a special blocking app. Another way to go about it is by using the adb tool to remove the app from the device.

Permissions Manager

The latest versions of Android come with a Permissions Manager, which is a way for the user to manage the permissions that different apps have access to. Some apps, for example, might have free use of the camera or the microphone, and it’s up to the user to choose which apps that they trust and then use the Permissions Manager to block access to the other apps that they don’t trust. It’s a good idea to become comfortable with the Permissions Manager and how it works, as it’s one of the very best ways to ensure that some apps aren’t collecting more data than they should, as well as for blocking any potential malware that might infect the device.

Harmful Apps

There are hundreds of thousands of apps available on the Play Store, but it’s always a good idea to make sure that a chosen app being downloaded is trustworthy, such as from a user’s favourite Australian betting sites. Often apps have full access to an Android device, meaning that they can see contact and calendar details, banking logins, and other person or financial information.

Custom Operating Systems

This is not aimed at the average user, and is better suited for those that are comfortable using a terminal or command prompt, as well as installing custom operating systems. Known often as a ROM, a custom mobile operating system is designed for Android, but often with specific benefits, such as better privacy and enhanced security. There are a few to choose from on the market, but the best right now include LineageOS, GrapheneOS, CalyxOS, and DivestOS. Of course, each one offers its own pros and cons, and most privacy experts agree that GrapheneOS is the very best when it comes to security and privacy, but this operating system only works on Google’s range of Pixel devices.