We get to use Google services like Google search, Gmail, Google Drive, YouTube and Google + for “free”. (That last one is a lie. Like anyone uses Google +). In exchange for these services you give Google your details like name and location. You also hand over your web activity so that Google can serve better ads. Here’s how to find out what Google knows about you and how to delete it:
SEE ALSO: 10 Google search tips you need to know
How to find out what Google knows about you
- Go to “https://history.google.com/history/” (or copy & paste the url)
- Make sure you are signed into Google (you may have to re-enter your password)
You will get an overview of your web history. From searches to websites visited at a certain time. This is really descriptive and if you have dodgy internet habits, they will be revealed here.
TIP: Your Web & App Activity items can help you find an answer faster, by suggesting previous searches even before you finish typing them. This is how Google uses autocomplete specifically for you.
[Tweet “How to find out what Google knows about you “]
How to delete your Google search history
- Click on the 3 dots & select Delete Options.
2. Select Advanced and then All Time and Delete.
3. Google will ask you if are sure. Yes you are sure.
And just like that, your search history is gone forever.
[Tweet “Here’s how to delete what Google knows about you “]
But Google knows much more about you than you think
To find out what Google knows about you, click on a section.
The other stuff really didn’t interest me, but it was only when I went to Voice & Audio Activity that I got freaked out.
Google records all of your voice searches and you can play back your voice searches!
[Tweet “Google stores your voice searches. You can actually play them back to yourself #creepy”]
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING ELSE Check out our Google Cardboard review