We hear it all the time: Google is always listening, and so is the government. They have our cameras, microphones, and our lives. Google is able to predict what content we want to see, and what advertisements we would be interested in. The government listens in on potential threats to other citizens (and probably more). Youtubers, such as Mitchollow, have even attempted to prove Google’s invasions on privacy. He has multiple videos showing Google using his microphone to pick up what ads to display to him. His first video involved dog toys. He checked multiple website with Google ads, and not a single ad had dog toys in them. He then started talking about dog toys for 2 minutes straight. The results were crazy, because he suddenly saw all these advertisements for dog toys. Plenty of people will find this harmless, but it definitely interesting to think about. Some companies know about this, and their aim is to restrict Google’s footprint.
FastCompany has created a “middle-man device” that is meant to stop Google in their tracks when it comes to always listening. The name is Project Alias, and it lays on top of Google Homes and restricts the ability to hear everything in a room. It uses constant low-noise sound that essentially block the Google device’s microphone until it is called upon. What makes this device even more special is the ability to create it at your house. It requires a Raspberry Pi machine, the ability to 3D print, and some GitHub software. This is the perfect device for somebody that wants the Google Home experience, but also want to keep Google away from their business.
Sources: https://9to5google.com/2019/01/14/google-home-project-alias/
Daria Gbor says
I have never heard of Project Alias before, but I could see this being used by many people. A lot of people are scared of technology and refuse to buy things such as the Google Home because of the privacy invasion concern. I believe Project Alias could help people trust Google Home more and in turn boost sales of the Google Home. This reminds me of the recent FaceTime bug that Apple had encountered which allows users to listen to other people’s phones. It makes you wonder who and what is listening to you that you am not aware of. Project Alias seems like a great device to secure your privacy.