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submitted 1 week ago by devxyn@sh.itjust.works to c/privacy@lemmy.ml

I use a Google Pixel and I can't use GrapheneOS since my phone is carrier locked.

Google play services is likely the biggest privacy invasion I have right now, and I can technically disable it entirely since I don't use many proprietary Google apps; I mostly use FOSS and privacy respecting alternatives.

What do I do to improve my privacy? I have location services off constantly but am sure that Google play services just bypasses it.

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[-] Neptr 29 points 1 week ago

"Cross-platform GUI written in Rust using ADB to debloat non-rooted Android devices. Improve your privacy, the security and battery life of your device."

https://github.com/Universal-Debloater-Alliance/universal-android-debloater-next-generation

[-] corvus@lemmy.ml 15 points 1 week ago

Don't fall into the illusion that you can have privacy with stock android. Google has admittedly igrored user settings to continue spying them.

[-] scott@lem.free.as 8 points 1 week ago

Logout from all your Google accounts and then use Aurora Store in anonymous mode to install and update apps.

[-] vector@no.lastname.nz 8 points 1 week ago

Install Rethink DNS app. Configure it to be an Always On VPN. Block any unwanted apps.

The best thing is their on-device block-list. You can even block Google all together. Its super customizable.

You can also use Wireguard VPN with it and it can do split routing.

It has been a game changer for me.

[-] leviathan@feddit.org 2 points 1 week ago

Didn't know it has Wireguard! Interesting..

[-] RheumatoidArthritis@mander.xyz 6 points 1 week ago

Sell it and get the same one but unlocked. Should be about the same price.

[-] toomuchrdio@retrolemmy.com 5 points 1 week ago

use FOSS apps as much as possible, avoid google account login. we have the same problem, i use CPH1853 and theres no way i could install GrapheneOS.

[-] merde@sh.itjust.works 2 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago)
[-] mudkip@lemdro.id 1 points 1 week ago

your carrier still sees you, deal with it or use airplane mode + wifi calling like a ghost. next time just buy an unlockable pixel from google, flash grapheneos, and ascend.

[-] devxyn@sh.itjust.works 2 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago)

my threat model doesn't include carrier location tracking, im not that extreme in danger of anything

this post was submitted on 04 Nov 2025
38 points (100.0% liked)

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