Real-World Examples Google
Posted: Sat May 24, 2025 8:24 am
Google collects data from nearly every corner of your phone:
Search and Maps data
Android system services
YouTube watch history
Google Play app usage
Location timeline
Even if you pause your location history, GPS data may still be collected through other services. Google's ecosystem is a prime example of vertically integrated data collection—your phone, browser, email, calendar, and even photos feed into the same data core.
Facebook/Meta
Facebook uses its core app, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp to track:
Messaging patterns
In-app behavior
External browsing via Facebook Pixel
App installs via SDKs
Meta has also been criticized for using phone numbers vietnam phone number list provided for two-factor authentication for ad targeting, blurring ethical lines.
TikTok, owned by ByteDance, raised global scrutiny due to:
Access to device clipboard
Fingerprinting techniques
Gathering device identifiers
Location and IP tracking
Usage of aggressive SDKs for analytics
Its “For You” algorithm thrives on behavioral data like video replays, viewing time, pauses, and content engagement, making it one of the most behaviorally optimized platforms.
Search and Maps data
Android system services
YouTube watch history
Google Play app usage
Location timeline
Even if you pause your location history, GPS data may still be collected through other services. Google's ecosystem is a prime example of vertically integrated data collection—your phone, browser, email, calendar, and even photos feed into the same data core.
Facebook/Meta
Facebook uses its core app, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp to track:
Messaging patterns
In-app behavior
External browsing via Facebook Pixel
App installs via SDKs
Meta has also been criticized for using phone numbers vietnam phone number list provided for two-factor authentication for ad targeting, blurring ethical lines.
TikTok, owned by ByteDance, raised global scrutiny due to:
Access to device clipboard
Fingerprinting techniques
Gathering device identifiers
Location and IP tracking
Usage of aggressive SDKs for analytics
Its “For You” algorithm thrives on behavioral data like video replays, viewing time, pauses, and content engagement, making it one of the most behaviorally optimized platforms.