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Over a billion Google Maps users use this powerful navigation tool every month. However, some individuals may not prefer using the map because they want to avoid leaving a digital footprint. A surprise or privacy issue might motivate such people to know how to use private Google Maps quietly. Here are some useful Google Maps privacy tips in detail:
Google Map Incognito Mode is straightforward: It prevents an account from storing all the activities and places searched. Like private browsing in Chrome, the app doesn't store history or personalize recommendations. Activating this feature involves opening the app, selecting the profile picture, and turning on Incognito Mode.
It also allows location sharing, thus ensuring that no one else can see real-time movements. This feature was introduced in 2019 and remains a topmost tool for those who value anonymity.
Google Maps logs visited places to personalize suggestions and recommendations for traveling. For privacy, users can turn off (pause) location history:
Open the Data & Privacy option.
Click on the Location History.
Toggle off this feature.
Once the toggle switches off, no location will be saved, but note that turning off location history does not deny real-time tracking while the facility is being actively used.
Google Maps is part of the entire Google family. Google Maps are filed and kept in Web & App Activity. By switching it off on this, one prevents their action from getting recorded:
Visit Google Account settings.
Navigate to Data & Privacy.
Pause Web & App Activity.
A recent survey conducted in 2023 states that around 72% of users worldwide are not aware of the amount of data collected by navigation apps; hence, this is a crucial step for the privacy-conscious.
Offline Maps, an app that allows users to access Google Maps without an active internet connection or location tracking, offers an excellent option for people who want to download maps of specific areas. Users can look for a location and select 'Download' for offline access. This function should work seamlessly, with no real-time data sharing, making it perfect for personal trips or situations where data is limited.
With smartphones, users can control how much Google Maps can access their location data. Setting up this permission while using the app will ensure that the app accesses one's location only when in actual use.
Settings > Applications > Maps > Permissions.
Select Allow while using the app only.
Settings > Privacy > Location Services.
Select Google Maps and then adjust accordingly.
Google Maps enables its users to live-share their location with trusted contacts. This feature could, however, be paused whenever a little secrecy is required:
Launch the app.
Click on the profile photo and click on Location Sharing.
Change or switch off sharing on what's required.
This works best at surprise holidays or those moments when everyone needs a little privacy.
The above are some Google Maps features for privacy and secretly using Google Maps, which brings up its simplicity. The anonymous Google Maps usage features include Incognito Mode, Offline Maps, and location permissions that enable the user to enjoy all the good functionalities while still keeping things private.
