Google will now auto-delete location and search history by default for new users

Google will now auto-delete location and search history by default for new users

Google announced broad changes in its default data practices for new users.  The  privacy improvements for its activity data includes changes to data retention practices across Google’s core products.

In a blog post, CEO Sundar Pichai, said, “As we design our products, we focus on three important principles: keeping your information safe, treating it responsibly, and putting you in control”

Google user when first time turns on Location History, the auto-delete option will be set to 18 months by default.This means your activity data will be automatically and continuously deleted after 18 months. One can also turn the settings off or change their auto-delete option

However, existing Google accounts won’t see any settings change. But, Google will also be promoting the option on the search page and in an effort to drive more users to examine their auto-delete settings

Location surveillance apps to fight Covid-19 in India

Location surveillance apps to fight Covid-19 in India

India sees a surge in Covid-19 cases and now authorities are using location-tracking apps on smartphones to identify possible Covid-19 infections or to keep people indoors.

Apps which allow citizens to track whether they have come in contact with infected people are increasing on Google and Apple app stores.

It is said that most of the apps use smartphone locations and tally them against government databases of infected people. They can alert users on encounter with those infected.

One such app is said to be the Corona Kavach, launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeiTY). Corona Kavach depends on users to voluntarily enter their information. But, Niti Aayog, is reportedly planning to launch an advanced app called COWIN-20.

Meanwhile, there is an app called Unmaze, which informs the authorities if a quarantined user breaks isolation. The app is available to the authorities for free and at least three police departments plan to launch it.

However, Countries like, Israel, Iran China, have used location to track infected patients or prevent the disease from spreading.