Google has rolled out significant changes to its privacy and security tools, but many users remain unaware of how to properly configure these settings to protect their personal information.
At a Glance
- Google is phasing out SMS codes for two-factor authentication due to security vulnerabilities, recommending stronger alternatives like authentication apps
- Chrome’s “Enhanced Protection” now uses AI to process browsing data in real-time, raising privacy concerns
- Android’s new SafetyCore feature scans photos for sensitive content using on-device machine learning
- Users can remove personal information from Google Search results with the improved Results About You tool
- Simple adjustments to default settings can significantly enhance privacy across Google’s ecosystem
Recent Changes to Google’s Privacy Landscape
Google has implemented several significant updates to its core products that directly impact user privacy and security. One of the most important changes affects Gmail’s authentication system. The company is moving away from SMS codes for two-factor authentication, acknowledging security vulnerabilities in this widely-used method. Instead, Google is encouraging users to adopt more secure verification options like authentication apps, physical security keys, passkeys, or device prompts that provide stronger protection against unauthorized access attempts.
“Two-factor authentication (2FA) is one of the best ways to protect your accounts, because it means hackers need more than a username and password to get at your data.” – David Nield, Lifehacker
Chrome users should be aware of changes to the browser’s “Enhanced Protection” feature. As Google describes it, this feature “is designed to warn you about harmful sites, downloads, and extensions.” However, the updated version now employs artificial intelligence to analyze browsing data in real-time, creating new privacy considerations for users who may not want their browsing habits scrutinized so thoroughly, even if for security purposes. Privacy-conscious individuals might consider alternative browsers like Brave, Mullvad Browser, or DuckDuckGo that prioritize privacy by default.
Nine Changes You Need to Make to Your Google Security and Privacy Settings
🔏 With Gmail, Gemini, Android, Chrome, and all the other apps and services it runs, Google can suck up a vast amount of information about you and what you're up to. It's important to make sure this data… pic.twitter.com/hPLeFO12ve
— Marsha Collier (@MarshaCollier) May 1, 2025
Android Privacy and Data Control Options
Android’s new SafetyCore feature has introduced automatic scanning of photos for what Google terms “sensitive content” using on-device machine learning. While Google maintains this approach is privacy-friendly because processing happens locally on the device rather than in the cloud, the feature has raised questions about consent and boundaries. For those concerned about this feature, it can be disabled by navigating to Android settings and turning off “Sensitive Content Detection.” Users with heightened privacy concerns might also explore alternative Android operating systems like CalyxOS or GrapheneOS.
“According to Google, this is opt-in and privacy-friendly because the scanning happens on your device.” – Google, Secrets of Privacy
Another welcome update is Google’s improved Results About You tool, which makes it easier for users to remove personal information from search results. This tool provides a streamlined process to request the removal of sensitive personal data like home addresses, phone numbers, and financial information. However, users should understand that this only affects Google Search results, not the actual websites hosting the information, and Google doesn’t guarantee approval of all removal requests. The tool represents a step forward in personal information management, but complete digital privacy requires additional measures.
Optimizing Chrome for Better Privacy
Chrome’s default settings prioritize convenience and integration with Google services rather than privacy. Users can significantly improve their privacy by making several key adjustments. One simple but effective change is signing out of your Google account while browsing, which reduces the amount of browsing data Google can associate with your identity. Changing your default search engine from Google to privacy-focused alternatives like DuckDuckGo prevents your search history from being collected and used for ad targeting.
Regular maintenance of browser data is also important. Setting Chrome to periodically clear browsing history, cookies, and site data prevents the accumulation of digital breadcrumbs that reveal your online habits. Privacy-focused extensions like uBlock Origin can block trackers and unwanted advertisements that collect your data across websites. For password management, security experts recommend specialized tools like BitWarden or 1Password rather than Chrome’s built-in password manager, as they offer stronger encryption and more comprehensive security features.
“Did you know Google can warn you if your information leaks out on the dark web?” – David Nield, Lifehacker
Central Privacy Control Through Google Account
The Google Account dashboard serves as a centralized control panel for managing privacy across all Google services. Under the Data & Privacy section, users can access Activity Controls to decide what information Google saves about their online activities. The dashboard allows users to view and delete stored data, and even set up automatic deletion after a specified period. This means older activity data will be automatically removed without requiring manual intervention, reducing the amount of personal data Google retains long-term.
Privacy-conscious users should also review permissions granted to third-party applications and websites that have access to their Google account. These connections, often created through “Sign in with Google” features, can provide external services with varying levels of access to personal information. Regularly auditing and revoking unnecessary permissions helps maintain control over data sharing. Additionally, Google’s Privacy Checkup tool provides a guided walkthrough of key privacy settings, making it easier for less tech-savvy users to enhance their privacy protection.
