Google is trying to increase the sense of security for its users by making a number of updates on various services. As the tech giant announced in recent days, there are at least two improvements, namely in the Play Store and also the search service Google Search.
In the Play Store, Google has made security improvements by presenting a ‘security section' that will be displayed on all applications that will be downloaded by Android smartphone users.
According to Google, the section is an attempt to provide users with more information and context. Where will include a description of what data the application developer collects when it is downloaded or updated, and how their data will be encrypted later.
In addition, there will also be information about whether the developer is following the Google Play Family Policy and whether their security practices have received third-party validation.
This security section of the Play Store will be rolling out gradually to users in the coming weeks. In addition, application developers are given until July 20 to add information to the section on each application offered.
Every developer is required to fill out a description form for the ‘security section', even including application developers who do not take any data from their users. If you ignore it, Google threatens to block app updates, and maybe even remove them from the Play Store.
Google Search
To increase the security of users on its search service, Google said it was expanding the types of personal information it would remove from search results. From what was previously only related to personal and financial data, it will now include things like addresses, phone numbers, to passwords.
That way, from now on users can ask Google to stop showing certain URLs that provide info that could lead someone to their home address or give them access to their account.
For the process itself, all users just need to go to the page provided on Google Support. There they can make a request, fill in any personal information they want to delete, the URL address that links to the personal information, and the search page that shows the link.
After submitting a request, Google will evaluate it, before actually creating the related information or links it will not appear for any search query.
However, the request may be rejected if it turns out that the information submitted is in the public interest. As in the case of content that is “newsworthy”, “professionally relevant” or originating from the government. If Google decides that the link should be removed, it says that the link.
Beyond that personal information, according to Google's support page, they'll also remove things like “non-consensual explicit or intimate personal images”, pornographic or Photoshop deepfakes that display a resemblance to the user, or links to sites with “removal practices.” exploitative.”
As for the list of several types of personal data that Google may delete according to user requests; government secret identification number (ID); Bank account number; credit card number; handwritten signature image; ID document image.
Furthermore, very personal, restricted, and official records, such as medical records; Personal contact info (physical address, phone number, and email address); and secret login credentials
