Many users may not know about an app called Android System SafetyCore. It was developed by Google and comes pre-installed on Android versions 9 and above. This app runs as a system-level application. At first glance, it seems designed to protect user safety. However, its hidden functions raise concerns. The deeper you look into how it works, the more troubling it becomes. The app has deep access to the device’s system. This raises a serious question: Does SafetyCore pose a risk to user privacy?
Could Android’s SafetyCore App inadvertently violate your privacy?
What is SafetyCore and What Does It Do?
Primarily, SafetyCore monitors and filters nude images shared or received through the Google Messages app. When it detects such content, the app displays a warning using something called a Listing Image Action for Appends (LAA). You can choose to ignore the image or view it. Google claims that since the app runs locally and stays detached from cloud services, all image scanning happens on the device itself. According to them, no data gets sent to external servers during the process.
Bounds of application placed via google and maintaining twitter hinges leaves open the pasage of not accessing beyond the messages app data monitoring borders inciting fear of privacy breach. Moreover, Google pushed the app into the messaging system without asking for user consent, which adds to the distrust. This move raises more red flags and deepens concerns about privacy.
Is It Possible To Completely Remove It?
SafetyCore does not interfere with the performance or functionality of your device, allowing it to be removed safely. If you prefer to exercise control over what runs on your phone, here is how to uninstall it:
- Open Settings on your Android phone.
- Proceed to Apps.
- Click on the three-dot icon located at the top right corner, then select Show system apps.
- Search for and click on Android System SafetyCore.
- Click on either Disable or Uninstall then confirm your decision
Remember, if you choose to remove SafetyCore, you forgo the ability to automatically scan the media found within Google Messages. One significant caveat, however, is that the application may be reinstalled or enabled without any prior notification due to system updates.
Digital Safety: The Balance Here (heads-up)
For those worried about digital privacy, it’s a good idea to keep looking over your system apps, particularly after significant updates. The discussion regarding SafetyCore is part of the much broader debate concerning users’ privacy, autonomy and transparency within an increasingly technologically advanced society.
What do you think about SafetyCore? Do you believe Google needs to add more clarity regarding it, or disable enabling it by default, without notifying users, instead – require opting-in? Leave your comments down below.
Source: Giz China
