We thought Google hit rock bottom with #privacy.
Its new beta feature on Google Files for #Android called “Smart Search" is the trap door.
This creepy new feature on by default & scans every file on your phone. Why is this bad? Because it could potentially ruin your life. (1/3)
@protonmail
I know this platform, and the fact that Google has reported to the police different cases, but I do no see the precise point where it's linked to this feature of Google Files app.
From what I know, Google scans its services (mail, drive, etc.) but I had no clue that it includes CSAM via this feature of the app.
@sebsauvage
Yep, it would seem a *big* reach if they'd start to employ client-side scanning (Apple considered it, and were promptly shot down by privacy organizations). If they did, why would they do it in an optional file manager app, instead of a system framework?
The other option would be that Files uploaded local documents to the cloud for indexing. That doesn't seem super likely, either.
I, too, would like to see some evidence.
@protonmail
@ech
@eyalherlin found this:
https://mastodon.social/@eyalherlin/111263560408332798
"To power this experience, Smart Search scans the files in the background with device performance and privacy in mind. Scanning happens on your device so your information doesn’t leave your device. You can turn off Smart Search anytime in the app’s Settings."
https://support.google.com/files/answer/9765316?hl=en
Zero evidence has been presented that Google would be performing a CSAM scan during this process.
Proton Mail
sebsauvage
Osma A 🇫🇮🇺🇦
Erik Haugen