By , Kim Komando
Published May 29, 2022
Ever think about how much Google knows about you? You don’t have to wonder. Sign in to your Google account and check this page to see exactly what the search giant thinks you’re interested in.
It’s not just search. Your Gmail inbox, Google Drive files, Maps history, YouTube views, and much more are added to the dossier of info on you. Here’s a buried Google Maps setting you should change right now.
While this type of data collection is par for the course these days, you can delete almost everything you’ve shared with Google and get at least some of your privacy back.
Have you ever stumbled across your phone number, address, or another private detail online? It's unsettling, and you can ask Google to stop displaying many things, including:
If you want to put in a removal request with Google, follow these steps:
You’ll get a confirmation email after you submit your request. Google will notify you once the request has been fulfilled, denied, or with any further steps you need to take.
PRIVACY 101: How to blur your home on Google Maps and Apple Maps
Google uses your search history to build a detailed profile about you. This personalizes ads and content you see.
Here’s how you can clear your search history and activity:
Once you've followed these steps, your search history will be gone, but you'll also have disabled tracking through apps, location history, and YouTube views.
Sick of being tracked? Use these Google alternatives instead.
Google Assistant makes it easy to set reminders, search with your voice, and lots more. Yes, Google keeps tabs on that activity.
You can delete stored recordings and other interactions. Here’s how:
From this page, you can also set up Auto-delete, to remove these types of interactions automatically every 3 months, 18 months, or 36 months.
TALK TO ME: Every iPhone and Android user should know these genius voice commands
If you use Google’s Chrome web browser, there’s a slew of info you’re handing over. As you’re doing a privacy checkup on the rest of your Google account, clear your Chrome browsing data, too.
Select the time range you want to wipe, from the past 24 hours to as early as the beginning of your browsing activity.
MORE TECH SMARTS: 5 hidden Google Assistant tricks for your Android
PODCAST PICK: Smart burritos, fridges and Band-Aids
Watch out for these telltale signs your hard drive is fading. Plus, inventors are working on smart fridges, high-tech burrito tape and bandages. I'll also tell you how to stop your ex from popping up in your photo memories in just a few simple steps.
Listen to the podcast here or wherever you get your podcasts. Just search for my last name, "Komando."
What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call Kim's national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to or watch The Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television, or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim's free podcasts.
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Learn about all the latest technology on The Kim Komando Show, the nation's largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today's digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters, and more, visit her website at Komando.com.
https://www.foxnews.com/tech/erase-private-details-google-knows-about-you