Navigating YouTube’s Data Harvesting
did you know there are safe ways you can watch YouTube videos without using the YouTube app or website? If you’re an astute observer of the digital landscape, you will have reservations when using YouTube, and for a good reason—They’re owned by Google.
Recently, YouTube has been cracking down on users who employ ad-blockers and even threatening legal action against projects that offer an ad-free YouTube experience.
The motivation behind seeking alternatives to YouTube is rooted in a desire to shield oneself from the pervasive data collection practices that YouTube employs, often without users’ awareness. These data collection efforts extend to:
- Personally Identifiable Information (PII): Your personal details are not spared.
- Scans of Sensitive Documents: YouTube may request scans of credit cards, passports, and photo IDs under the pretext of “Age Verification.”
- Geolocation: Your whereabouts are tracked.
- Biometric and Health Data: Yes, you read that right—biometric and health data fall under the data net.
- Interactions, Behaviors, and Usage Analytics: Every click and view is meticulously recorded.
- Third-Party Marketing: Your personal information is shared with third parties for marketing purposes.
- Data Exchange with Third Parties: YouTube not only collects data but also receives information about users from third-party sources. It’s a two-way data street.
Perhaps most alarmingly, policy changes can be implemented immediately, and your continued use of the platform implies consent to these alterations.
The extent of data collection is staggering, as detailed in this comprehensive source.
Now, take a moment to ponder this list. Is it reasonable to surrender so much personal information merely to indulge in cat videos or the latest viral trends?
The Solution: “DeGoogle Your Digital Life”
Reclaiming control over your digital life is a commendable endeavor, and here’s how you can start:
- Choose Devices Wisely: Purchase a device that do not include YouTube or any Google products or code.
- Explore Alternative Apps: On Android devices, consider installing Newpipe, a privacy-conscious app that allows you to enjoy YouTube without ads and data collection.
- iOS Options: On iOS, your options are somewhat limited, but you can access YouTube content through the website Invidious. Simply create a shortcut on your home screen for a convenient experience.
- Browser Solutions: Invidious is also accessible via web browsers. Additionally, platforms like Piped offer alternative options for accessing video content.
It’s essential to recognise that the power to curb the brazen data collection and sale practices of tech giants like Google lies in your hands. By taking proactive steps to protect your digital privacy, you become the guardian of your own data in an era where data privacy is paramount.
Our Mission for Data Privacy
At Incognito, our mission is to empower individuals to take control of their data privacy. Our DeGoogled Phones offer simplicity and security, featuring open-source, tracker-free operating systems. Plus, you’ll find nearly 30 privacy-respecting, tracker-free apps that enable you to enjoy the conveniences of modern life without compromising your privacy.
Explore our store to discover a wide range of DeGoogled phones, Tablets, and Privacy-focused Linux Laptops. Make the choice for privacy today.
