A guide on how to disable common trackers and privacy infringing background services on iOS & Android

common-trackers.md

Disable Common Trackers & Privacy Infringing Background Services on iOS & Android

Introduction

Mobile devices constantly exchange data with various services, many of which track your activities and compromise your privacy. This guide outlines steps to disable common trackers and privacy-infringing background services on iOS and Android devices, helping you maintain control over your personal information.

iOS: Enhancing Privacy

Identifying and Disabling Trackers

1. Access Privacy Settings: Open Settings > Privacy to view which apps have requested access to your data.
2. Review App Permissions: Carefully review permissions for each app. Disable access for any app that doesn't need it to function.

Managing Location Services

• Limit Access: Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services. Here, you can disable location services entirely or select "While Using the App" for necessary apps only.

Limiting Background App Refresh

• Disable Non-Essential Apps: Navigate to Settings > General > Background App Refresh. Turn it off for apps that don't need to update in the background.

Android: Securing Your Data

Identifying and Disabling Trackers

1. Privacy Settings: Open Settings > Privacy. Check your Permission Manager to see which apps have access to sensitive data and disable unnecessary permissions.

Managing App Permissions

• Limit Access: Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > Advanced > Permission manager. Here, you can review and revoke app permissions based on category.

Restricting Background Data Usage

• Control Data Use: Settings > Network & internet > Data usage > App data usage. Select apps to restrict background data usage.

Using Privacy-Focused Apps

• Privacy Alternatives: Consider using apps designed with privacy in mind, such as Signal for messaging or DuckDuckGo for web browsing.
• Daily Use Integration: Make these privacy-focused apps your default choices to enhance your overall data protection.

Regular Privacy Checkups

• Review Permissions Regularly: Periodically revisit your app permissions and privacy settings to make adjustments as needed.
• Software Updates: Keep your device's software up to date. Updates often include important security enhancements.

Conclusion

Taking steps to disable common trackers and privacy-infringing background services is crucial for protecting your personal information on mobile devices. By regularly reviewing your device's privacy settings and opting for privacy-focused apps, you can significantly reduce your digital footprint and enhance your online security.