yashsingh1/xdaforums huggingface dataset:
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] wyattyoss:
I trust Google with my first born...and I'm not even a legal adult yet. They have so many steps to provide security. When I got my Nexus, I was mad that it said Verizon rather than Google. Google designed an OS to stay integrated in every way possible, even more so with upcoming Google Drive, but if I were to say run CM9 without the Google Apps, I wouldn't have anything. I'd have 15 or so utility apps reminiscent to the days of the G1. Android has come such a long way, that it would be a shame to disown Google. Can you imagine an iOS with Apple? It would be just another mobile operating system without their leeway. Anyway though, to help the OP, download the latest AOKP, since it has the most features since you can't get a lot of those features out of Play Store, side load Amazon App Store, and upload all of your contacts by your way of choice.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] @rbiter:
It seems op is not paranoid but kinda demonstrating is possible to do what you do everyday minus Google following you behind your back. Google just wants a leg up to be in your face with obtrusive. Thus why a lot of their soft and hard ware are usually beta, experiments or just open the door to potential new markets. The other companies want to be in your face, your grill, your T-shirt and they want you to do it a certain way. Google is not perfect but once you grasp their whole business model the beta's are a pleasure to deal with and we should be thankful they actually helped with pop ups and searching the internet more efficiently in a roundabout way. What I love about information and open source is it is meant to be shared. And once a lot more people get on that bandwagon, no matter company, everything in our life will be influenced much better and there will be less **** fights on the internet about who is better. Imagine how much better apple would be if they followed this idea more and lost the marketing. And the whole patent thing really needs to be dropped. It is slowing down a lot of things.

---------++++---------

iPhone. helping computer illiteracy become popular since 2007.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] descendency:
Except Amazon's app store is just like the Play Store, except it's Amazon collecting the data.

Building a cloud server for your own personal data isn't hard. However... getting around data tracking software is literally impossible on the internet.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] Scottatron:
The tinfoil around your handset must play havoc with your touchscreen and reception!

:D
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] crachel:
I'm not getting a tinfoil vibe from this at all. Tinfoil is Richard Stahlman:

that's tinfoil :D

I'd actually be interested to here your experience here if you choose to take that on. I might be interested in setting this up myself.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] chubb16:
http://f-droid.org/

The FDroid Repository is an easily-installable catalogue of FOSS applications for the Android platform. The server contains the details of multiple versions of each application, and the Android client makes it easy to browse, install them onto your device, and keep track of updates

There you go, cyanogenmod, NO gapps, and f-droid... You have a open source and private and secure phone that runs aosp.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] :
I bought my Android phone knowing full well it was just a ploy by Google to harvest more data about what we do and profit from it. I don't have much of a problem with corporations/governments/criminal organizations looking through my life, they'd get bored really, REALLY fast and the joke is on them really.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] ellesshoo:
Oh dear God, a story about an employer requesting a Facebook password goes viral in the mainstream media and now it's "known to be a common question"? How many interviews or jobs have you had? It would be inconceivable for any HR dept at any reputable company to implement such a policy even if it may be technically legal to do so at the moment. It doesn't serve a company to do so, for both internal and external (eg. PR) reasons. Just because one or two misguided individuals have tried doesn't make it an issue people are likely to encounter, ever. Any employer that has a legal dept with half a brain would put that idea to rest before the person who proposed it could even finish a sentence. It would open them up to so much discrimination litigation.

There might be some govt sensitive information clearance cases but those will be rare and will always require their pound of flesh anyway.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] adrynalyne:
Sounds to me like you are willing to still use cloud services, but from a company that has less resources and likely less security than Google when it comes to protecting your data.

Makes perfect sense as a Google replacement to me....

*shakes head no*

I understand the idea as an experiment, but the above is not a solution I would call ideal or even a good idea.

In addition to keeping data safe(r), you best not root your device, and SIGN your aosp rom properly. AOKP, Gummy, etc...many roms do not (bamf paradigm does). They instead use widely known aosp test keys that even Google recommends you do not use.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] adrynalyne:
I find it amazing they can request crap like that in the first place.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] mainmast2:
If it was a once off thing, why is congress addressing it with legislation? It's a valid concern. Employers try to get as much information as they can get away with. Retailers have been doing credit checks on applicants for atleast 30 years. Bad credit? You can forget about that job with Sears or Radio Shack. Potential

employers can call previous places of employment and are not allowed to ask if were a good employee but they can ask if they would rehire you.

Google's more intrusive than Amazon since it cross references many databases. I'm not wearing a tin hat, i do not like personalized advertisements. My kids use my computer and their browsing gets tied to my 'Google profile' for example. I was a sysadmin for many years and had to keep pace with information security trends.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] joshpersaud:
So you basically want a smartphone... without the smart part?
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] reuthermonkey:
precisely.

Verizon already attempted replacing everything on some of their Android devices with BING. I believe ATT attempted doing the same with Yahoo.

If you want a complete clean install, just build your own AOSP 4.0.4 build. Flash it to your phone. Sideload getjar's app store. (http://www.getjar.com/)

For contacts, a SIM card can handle that (with limitations in what data can be saved, of course).

As someone else mentioned, this might be a good idea for a custom ROM (tinfoil edition). AOSP with alternative services.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] dabl8:
Put another way, you want a phone with only free and open source software, like Ubuntu. It's not quite as easy as cyanogenmod - gapps + f-droid, because cm ships nonfree binaries for the graphics and camera in ICS. So you would have to use GB. Also there is a thing called the baseband that shares ram with the CPU and could conceivably extract anything from the ram and even command the camera. There is a project guided by the FSF called Replicant that has managed to put out roms for a couple of Samsung phones that use a free RIL (interface between baseband and CPU). On the nexus s most radio functions work, one exception being conference calls.. Going forward, we will see free drivers for Mali gpus I use f-droid and cm (and a few closed source games), there are some ropey apps in there but with apps like k9mail and osmand I don't miss Google at all. I'm planning to rent some hosting for Owncloud, which can do calendar, contacts, music streaming, documents and is all GPL. Sparkleshare will cover you if you need a Drive clone. Running your own mail server will get easier with DMARC authentication and better bandwidth. You should check out http://freedomboxfoundation.org for more on this.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] dabl8:
The main reason I say Foss is the best route is because Google is in practically every app when you factor maps, admob and analytics. The network location relies on Google's databases and is a closed source system app. And don't forget to change your DNS, which if your using cyanogenmod points to Google too. There is a thread on thisforum recently started that is working to replace Maps API with OSm-based equivalent and also an Apache licensed Play Store equivalent. The f-droid project has over 150 Foss apps in the submission queue. All that's required to get them into the repository is to fill out metadata forms with the description, version, version code etc and submit via git to the fdroiddata repo at http://gitorious.org/f-droid.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] eksasol:
I'm pretty late to the discussion, but its pretty much impossible to stop yourself from being data mined by Google and many other marketing entities. When you typed a single letter onto the Google search field on your browser, a network transmission is made to Google even if you press backspace. Many sites use Google analytic and other services like doubleclick, so you don't have to specifically use a Google service for them to know what you're doing. Then there is the whole debacle with Google Maps and Street.

Also the whole idea of using other 'major' alternatives is moot because you can't be sure of your privacy by simply giving all that info to Microsoft or Amazon instead of Google, and there are thousands of organization out there tracking you.

You can only try to minimize the tracking. AdFree is probably the biggest one, its basically a hosts file that deny webtracking sites from accessing your device. PDroid is very useful, but can be difficult to get working on all devices. LBE is an alternative, but closed source. There are many tracking files left on your phone by other apps, if you use TreVE logging test app to find out. What I think would be great is an anonymous proxy for Google for Android devices like the GoogleSharing addon for Firefox.

I think its part of a bigger issue, with the way mega corps are lobbying the law now and profiting from piracy, they will soon make it illegal to use VPN and proxy privately unless you are a company and your VPN is licensed. They already tried to outlaw encryption once in US, but was it didn't pass due to concerns from companies.

It was a bit sad Maemo died and the lack of interest in Meego after Nokia goes to Microsoft.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] BrianDigital:
data mining, so Google knows I like pornhub, xda, and newegg.

I look forward to my advertisements
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] priau:
I think this is the best approach I've seen on the answers. OP is not paranoid for wanting to do this. Privacy and secrecy are different things. Some of us like privacy and would like to keep a private environment on our phones without restricting ourselves from useful technologies.

I'm trying to find the same answer as OP, that's how I got here. This is one of the set of solutions I have:

Install a "clean" version of Android + RedPhone (which encrypts your calls and text messages) + Orbot for Tor + F-Droid or even better, a Cydia-like repository system for Android, which would provide a Debian Packaging System (apt) for your phone, giving access to a myriad of apps and updates. You could also use riseup for email or another similar service.

I'm not familiar with the Android ecosystem (the only Android device I own is a rooted nook Touch) but this seems plausible even if there's some development required in order for this to work.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] Janzomaster:
There is a similar discussion going on here, which I think is already a bit further along the way: http://xdaforums.com/showthread.php?t=1460831
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] bozzykid:
It's funny there is 5 pages of comments for using Android without Google when all you need to do is compile AOSP. It doesn't contain any Google apps or services. Done deal.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] Janzomaster:
This thread is about getting the best experience as well - which non-google services can replace functions, which apps replace Google apps, how do you get them without the market etc.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] jimmyhook:
It's totally doable. Once you set up non play store app sources you just stay away from anything that you don't feel comfortable with. Use an offline calendar. Use an email address from your home ISP. Encrypt all your communications. It's not hard, it just takes more effort than what most people are willing to put in. It's not "crazy" as some suggest, I know I don't appreciate the NSA monitoring my calls/emails/sms/Web traffic.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] Nburnes:
They'll have to remember that when they read your post here on a public forum. :p
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] papagoejoe:
It's funny, whenever someone states, that they are concerned with Google or any other giant corporation's privacy snooping behaviour, the "you are crazy, tinfoil hat, herp derp"-quire instantly starts singing the same old tune.

From my point of view, it is crazy not to be concerned with the power this kind of tracking provides. I would never feel comfortable to put on my blinds and simply stop caring what a corporation likes Google does with my data. An yet I don't feel the need to ridicule those who do.

I chose a different approach though. I know I cannot completely avoid the data collection, so I spoof it. For instance I have several Google accounts for different devices, I avoid Google services, when I can (who uses a search widget that wants permission to read/edit your calendar data?), and when it's too inconvenient to avoid, I make sure to enter lots of BS entries for every real entry to my data journal. There are several apps/extensions that can help you with that, so it's easy.

I know it does not render my data useless. But it decreases the value and potential power of the data, which raises my level of comfort. Of course there is no way to be completely anonymous on any phone - it's a phone. Use a virtual machine with a faked MAC and a combination of proxies, VPS and Tor if you ever need that :)

By the way, the people who says: "It is simply impossible to avoid" simply does not want to put in the effort and only seeks to justify their own carelessness by telling you, that you are the one who is wrong.

I know that the Google-fanboys will instinctively start scanning my arguments and techniques for weaknesses, but think about this: No madder what loophole you think you find, it will never justify to simply stop caring.

Maybe the data collection will never have any negative consequences for my and then what? I still had fun trying to beat the system, I learned a lot while doing it and everyone is a winner. But then again, maybe these huge KGB-like databases will be a cause of major concern at some point in the future, and then the joke will be on you..
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] @rbiter:
I think what you were trying to say is don't give these corporations the whole bags of treats, bacon, pork chops and put the leash around your collar on your own. Be conscious and aware of what you do and make the corporations beg for crumbs? Anyway that is how i see it. I don't see anybody lining up to get the world connected, and really there are more places than first world countries that could use some free or low cost internet and cheap means to use it.

...
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] fooman123:
Data over cell networks fair game - always has been. as for the KGB-like databases that show that I like read tech sites and drinking good coffee, I don't really care. The same people whining about google getting too much information are often the same ones sharing too much information by posting pictures of their puke on facebook.. I don't hear anybody seriously saying bigbro is impossible to avoid -- whack-jobs like Ted Kaczynski provide a perfect model for those that are seriously worried that their mundane existence on this tiny blue dot might benefit anyone besides themselves. Dog forbid..
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] papagoejoe:
And that's totally cool, to each their own. If it is fine by you, it is fine by me. But I have never seen a thread on the internet, where someone is asking for advice to avoid or limit online tracking without him being bombarded with comments like "impossibru, tinfoil hat, live under a rock" and so on.

I'm not very fond of arguments like "the people who says A are often the same people who does B". Well, maybe that is true, maybe it's not. I can only speak for myself, and I'm not one of them. I never share anything on FB other than cute cat memes.

I will say though, that it is not knowledge of my browsing habits, I'm worried about (I'm old enough to watch porn anyway). Names, phone numbers and addresses of all my friends and business associates, access to my calendar and the ones that are shared with me, GPS coordinates of my whereabouts and stuff like that though. Well, frankly that does worry me.

Ultimately for me it comes down to this: I simply can't comprehend all the potential consequences this could lead to. Like what if some random employee with access to Google's/FB's/other big corporation's database on me, wishes to do me harm at some point in life? Maybe he feels I ran of with his girlfriend or did something else, that will make him dislike me. Which problems can he cause for me with that knowledge? I simply can't imagine all the possible outcomes, so I say better safe than sorry, right?

EDIT: English is not my native tongue, so excuse the errors :)
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] fooman123:
point taken --

Though - I do sincerely sympathise with those that ridicule, as the ones being ridiculed, more often than not, have arguments built on flimsy foundations of absurd and vague assumptions.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] reuthermonkey:
You don't have to be a fanboy to acknowledge the futility of it though. You can pretty easily block Google from knowing about you. Your carrier, OTOH, has direct access to your actual usage data. They can watch your data before it ever gets close to touching a proxy or tor exit node. Verizon has actually been quite vocal about their intentions. And their data is a lot more reliable than Google's. And god help you if you subscribe to Verizon FiOS or DSL on top of having cell service through them.

This is why your position is often met with disdain. You're trading one overlord for another. And typically the new overlord is far less reputable than Google.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] papagoejoe:
Of course you need an encrypted connection if you want a little bit of privacy, and I am well aware, that it is impossible to avoid any harvesting at all. But I still don't see, why that would be a reason not to take a few step to try spoof the data mining at limit the number of people who has access to my life story and my credit cards.

Actually it is funny that people worry about trojans and keyloggers sneaking in on their devices. But when someone actually logs our every keystroke, the consequences are unimaginable, so we simply don't care.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] :
Hey, here is a solution if you are that paranoid about your personal data. Do not own a phone!

My current ROM:http://xdaforums.com/showthread.php?t=1892807
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] adrynalyne:
or get on the Internet.

or get a bank account or credit card.

or...<insert reason>.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] :
Social Security Number...

My current ROM:http://xdaforums.com/showthread.php?t=1892807
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] Chuchave:
I just don't understand why someone wouldn't wanna use big G its awesome.. hands down the best
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] blackhand1001:
No offense but this is the exact behavior that makes people say the phrase tinfoil hat. Google isn't personally looking at your data individually. They are using it for group statistics and ad targeting. There is no one person looking at your data and quite frankly there are so ,any people on Google that could never go through all the data anyway. Its all handled by automation.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] @rbiter:
Deleted
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] Sam Sung:
I agree to a certain extent, in the context of your response, but it's not really Google that we have to worry about, although Eric Scmidt (former Google CEO and still{?} exec chairman) has made plenty of statements that tend to make one want to keep tin foil on hand:

http://www.stateofsearch.com/top-15-of-eric-schmidts-remarkable-quotes/

However, the problem with massive data collection of this sort (beyond annoyance and marketeer privacy invasion) is that it paints a comprehensive picture on both an individual and populace level. It's not Google we have to worry about. It's that person/entity/government and recognizes its uses beyond simple profit.

Government has already entered the 'Big Brother' fray in 'legitimate' ways...cameras at every intersection, satelites that can read lic plates, data bases that contain reams of data, access to security videos everywhere. Add Google and it could be easily surmised that the Big Brother framework is in place and (beyond) ready to be used by any overzealous or unsavory entity. Actually, this framework fits well with the current trend toward socialism.

Sound paranoid? Frankly, yes. But it would be naive to believe that there is no possibility for this data to be misused, that there do not exist individuals/groups who would step in to (gladly) use this data to their own whim/ends/agenda. If not our own Government, there are enough violent acts taking place on an international level to lead one to believe that groups exist who would gladly use this and whatever else to the detriment of the masses. Or, perhaps corporate takeover would acquire a new context. The possibilities are endless.

For those who dismiss such thoughts, I proudly dawn my Tinfoil (sort of) Hat: :cowboy:
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] papagoejoe:
I'm not worried about Google or any other organisation in particular. I'm worried by the gigantic amount of unknown factors.

How do you know how (any employee of) Google utilizes the data? Do you work there. What about in the future? You may be able to find out how the data is used now, but can you guarantee that will never change? If not I'll keep my tinfoil hat on, thank you very much. If a bot can access the data, so can a person.

I must add, that I don't consider it very likely at all, that there will ever be anyone anywhere, who will try to use this data in any way that might harm me. I'm just worried by the fact, that it is a possibility.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] adrynalyne:
Just because there are cars on the road that could wreck into me, doesn't mean I stop driving every day.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] papagoejoe:
No, but you wear a seat belt, don't you?
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] 063_XOBX:
Because it's the law. Just like Google is legally required to make ToS that makes clear how they use your data if you don't read it that's your fault. If you want to be paranoid be paranoid, but don't pretend it's not clearly laid out how your data is used.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] MikeyMike01:
I like how people will actually defend what Google does.

Incredible.

Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] adrynalyne:
Like how much you bash Android and Google, yet are still here.

Equally incredible.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] 063_XOBX:
I'm not defending anything. But if you agree to something (ToS) without reading it then you deserve whatever happens to your information.
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] MikeyMike01:
Someone has to counterbalance the high levels of unintelligent posts.

Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] Zwarx:
I don't understand. If you're living in America or any other developed country, you're already in several different databases. What's one more? And no matter how much you close up your life, if the powers that be actually care about you enough to look into your personal life, they can find whatever they want without your permission

Sent from my sexy white Nexus Prime running CNA 3.8
[Samsung Galaxy Nexus] adrynalyne:
Let me know when you start ;)