Tech Tips: Stop Your Smartphone from Listening to You
Many smartphone users have experienced this: you talk about a product or topic, and shortly after, ads or reels about it appear on your phone. While it feels like your device is “listening” to your conversations, most of the time this is due to targeted advertising and data tracking. However, there is a setting you can enable to reduce this tracking.Why It Feels Like Your phone is Listening1. Targeted Adso Apps collect search history, location, and browsing behavior to show ads that match your interests.2. Voice Assistantso Features like Google Assistant, Siri, or Alexa are always listening for wake words. They do not actively record conversations unless triggered.3. App Permissionso Many apps request microphone access, which can sometimes be misused if not carefully managed.How to Stop Your phone from “Listening”Most smartphones allow you to disable microphone access for apps and voice tracking. Here’s how:For Android:1. Go to Settings → Privacy → Permission Manager → Microphone.2. Review the list of apps with microphone access.3. Deny microphone permission for apps that don’t need it.For iOS (iPhone):1. Go to Settings → Privacy → Microphone.2. Toggle off access for apps that shouldn’t have microphone permissions.3. Optionally, turn off Siri & Dictation to prevent voice activation.Additional Tips· Limit Ad Personalization:o On Android: Settings → google → Ads → Opt out of Ads Personalization.o On iOS: Settings → Privacy → Tracking → Allow Apps to Request to Track → Off.· Check App Permissions Regularlyo Many apps request unnecessary access. review and disable permissions you don’t need.· Update Your OS and Appso Updates often patch privacy vulnerabilities.ConclusionSmartphones are not secretly recording every conversation, but data tracking can make it feel that way. By disabling microphone access, turning off voice assistants, and limiting ad personalization, you can significantly reduce the feeling that your phone is “spying” on you. Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.