Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, gathers a significant amount of data from Android users. This data is often collected through hidden trackers embedded in websites, third-party apps, and even within Meta’s own apps. Fortunately, there are ways to limit and block this data collection to protect your privacy.
Limit Ad Tracking on Your Android Device
Start by reducing how much your phone allows companies to track your behavior for advertising. On most Android devices, you can go to Settings > Google > Ads and activate Opt out of ad personalization. This tells advertising networks that you prefer not to be tracked for targeted ads.
Manage App Permissions Carefully
Review the permissions granted to your apps. Navigate to Settings > Privacy > Permission manager. From there, you can disable access to your location, camera, contacts, microphone, and other sensitive features for apps that don’t need them.
Disable Background Data Usage
To stop apps from collecting data when you’re not using them, go to Settings > Apps > select the app > Mobile data and Wi-Fi, then turn off Background data. This limits data exchange and reduces passive tracking.
Use Private DNS to Block Trackers
Enabling private DNS can prevent many known tracking services. Visit Settings > Network and internet > Private DNS, and select Private DNS provider hostname. Enter a service like dns.adguard.com to block common ad and analytics domains.
Try DuckDuckGo’s App Tracking Protection
The DuckDuckGo app for Android includes a built-in tracker blocker. Once enabled, it detects and stops hidden trackers from collecting your data across other installed apps. This tool works silently in the background and keeps a real-time log of tracking attempts blocked.
Adjust Facebook and Instagram Privacy Settings
- Turn off off-platform tracking: In the Facebook app, go to Settings and privacy > Settings > Your Facebook information > Off-Facebook activity. Clear history and manage future activity.
- Control ad preferences: Go to Settings > Ad preferences to stop ads based on partner data.
- Restrict location access: Within the apps’ settings, disable precise location tracking.
Use Browsers With Enhanced Privacy
Accessing Facebook or Instagram through privacy-focused browsers such as Brave or Firefox with tracking protection enabled is safer than using the mobile apps. These browsers block cookies, trackers, and scripts that Meta uses to follow your behavior.
Additional Steps to Protect Your Data
- Clear cache and app data regularly to remove stored tracking info.
- Use messaging apps that prioritize encryption, such as Signal.
- Install a firewall or app permission monitor like NetGuard to control network access.
While it’s difficult to avoid tracking entirely, these steps significantly reduce Meta’s ability to monitor your behavior across Android devices. By taking control of your privacy settings and using trusted tools, you can create a safer and more private mobile experience.
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