This week, Google has announced a way for Wi-Fi users to opt out of the Google geolocation database. The process is fairly simple if you can change the name of your Wi-Fi network. Simply add ‘_nomap’ to the end. For example, if your Wi-Fi network is called “geekygadgets,” it will become “geekygadgets_nomap”.
Google’s global privacy counsel Peter Fleischer explains:
“As we explored different approaches for opting-out access points from the Google Location Server, we found that a method based on wireless network names provides the right balance of simplicity as well as protection against abuse,”
Understanding Google’s Geolocation Database
Google’s geolocation database is a system that uses Wi-Fi networks to help pinpoint the location of devices. This is particularly useful for services like Google Maps, where accurate location data can enhance the user experience. However, some users have raised privacy concerns about their Wi-Fi networks being included in this database without explicit consent. By allowing users to opt out, Google aims to address these concerns while maintaining the functionality of its location-based services.
The process of adding ‘_nomap’ to your Wi-Fi network name is straightforward. Once you change the SSID (Service Set Identifier) of your network, Google’s systems will recognize the suffix and exclude your network from the geolocation database. This change can be made through your router’s settings, which typically involve logging into the router’s web interface and modifying the network name.
Why Opting Out Might Be Important
Opting out of Google’s geolocation database can be important for several reasons. Firstly, it enhances your privacy by ensuring that your Wi-Fi network is not used to triangulate the location of devices. This can be particularly relevant for individuals who are concerned about their data being used without explicit permission.
Secondly, opting out can prevent potential misuse of your network information. While Google has measures in place to protect against abuse, the ‘_nomap’ suffix adds an extra layer of security by ensuring your network is not part of the geolocation data pool.
For more information on the new announcement and location-based services, jump over to the Google website.
Source: TG Daily : Google : CNET
Additionally, it’s worth noting that other companies and services may have similar databases and opt-out mechanisms. Users who are particularly concerned about privacy should investigate the policies of other services they use and take similar steps to protect their information.
In conclusion, Google’s new opt-out feature for its geolocation database is a welcome development for privacy-conscious users. By simply adding ‘_nomap’ to the end of your Wi-Fi network name, you can ensure that your network is excluded from Google’s location services. This simple yet effective method strikes a balance between usability and privacy, providing users with more control over their data.
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