Pixel 9 Pro XL Reportedly Sends User Data to Google Every 15 Minutes, Raising Privacy Concerns

Pixel 9 Pro XL Reportedly Sends User Data to Google Every 15 Minutes, Raising Privacy ConcernsA recent report by cybersecurity firm Cybernews analyzing the network traffic of the Pixel 9 Pro XL has raised concerns about user privacy. The report reveals that the phone sends data packets containing sensitive information, such as user location, phone number, email address, and network status, to Google every 15 minutes

Pixel 9 Pro XL Reportedly Sends User Data to Google Every 15 Minutes, Raising Privacy Concerns

A recent report by cybersecurity firm Cybernews analyzing the network traffic of the Pixel 9 Pro XL has raised concerns about user privacy. The report reveals that the phone sends data packets containing sensitive information, such as user location, phone number, email address, and network status, to Google every 15 minutes. Adding to the concerns, the phone also reportedly attempts to download and run new code.

Security researcher Aras Nazarovas claims the Pixel 9 Pro XL repeatedly uses personally identifiable information (PII) for authentication, configuration, and logging. He argues this practice doesn't align with industry best standards in anonymization, indicating potential overcollection and processing of information.

The report also highlights that even with GPS disabled, the Pixel 9 Pro XL still uses Wi-Fi to determine the devices location and sends location information to Google. Additionally, despite not having opened the photo app on the Pixel 9 Pro XL, the phone sometimes automatically connects to network nodes associated with Google Photos face grouping functionality.

In response to Cybernews' report, Google stated that user safety and privacy are their top priorities. Users can manage data sharing, app permissions, and other settings during device initialization and setup. Google believes the report lacks critical context, misrepresents technical details, and fails to adequately explain that data transmissions are necessary for legitimate services on all mobile devices, such as software updates, on-demand features, and personalized experiences, regardless of the device manufacturer, model, or operating system.

Cybernews' report has sparked discussions about smartphone data collection and privacy. Some users are concerned that phone manufacturers are collecting excessive personal information that could be misused. On the other hand, manufacturers argue that data collection is necessary to deliver high-quality services and personalized experiences.

The controversy surrounding Pixel 9 Pro XL's data collection continues. Users are urged to carefully read their phone's privacy policy and configure data permissions based on their individual needs.

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Several aspects of the Pixel 9 Pro XL's data collection practices raise concerns for users:

• Excessive data collection frequency: Sending data containing sensitive information to Google every 15 minutes seems overly frequent, particularly when the user is not actively using the phone.

• Broad data collection scope: The data collected includes user location, phone number, email address, and network status, encompassing personal privacy and sensitive information.

• Automatic download and execution of new code: This raises potential security risks as the phone could download and execute malicious code without the user's knowledge.

Users need to understand how phone manufacturers collect and use their personal information and have the power to control their data privacy.