Google Starts Scanning Videos On Your Phone -- How To Stop It

Google's recent update allows its app on Android devices to scan videos, escalating privacy concerns as users may not be aware of this silent change.

The update, part of an app Google installed without user knowledge, enables scanning of videos in addition to previously scanned photos on Android devices.
This new functionality utilizes on-device AI, raising significant privacy issues as users may not be aware their content is being analyzed by Google.
The feature is integrated with Google Messages, which already scans photos for various purposes, now extending to video content, potentially affecting millions of Android users.
As of October 2023, users are advised to adjust privacy settings to prevent Google from scanning their videos, highlighting the need for transparency in mobile app operations.

Why It Matters

This development raises critical privacy concerns for Android users who may unknowingly have their videos scanned by Google. It could lead to increased scrutiny of mobile app practices and user data protection. As awareness grows, users may demand more control over their privacy settings, prompting potential changes in how tech companies handle user content.