Just got a Galaxy S21 and want to set it up prioritizing security and privacy as much as possible on stock Android. (I’d prioritize security over privacy if it comes down to it, but feel free to write about the other way around.)
Looking for advice on:
Key Settings: What essential privacy/security settings should I change immediately during/after setup (e.g., telemetry, location, permissions)? Any specific Samsung/Google services to disable carefully?
Non-Negotiable Apps: I must use Apple Music, WhatsApp and my banking apps. What’s the best way to minimize their privacy impact? (Strict permissions? Secure Folder? Network blocking?)
Samsung Apps vs. Alternatives: Should I stick with Samsung’s Gallery, My Files, Keyboard, etc., or replace them with more private (FOSS?) options? Any recommendations?
Honesty it’s a Privacy Nightmare. I would say the first thing you should do is change all your Samsung apps.Use adb or shizoku with canta to remove them. Turn off customization services. Change you browser get nextDNS with rethink and monitor network activities. Block apps from accessing the internet.Set up a work profile with shelter.Remove Galaxy Store and Play Store and install Obtainium F-Droid and aurora
The seller has no return policy (I should have thought about it beforehand, especially since it was pre-owned) Also, Pixels remain a niche in my country’s market. But regardless, which Pixel phone do you recommend that offers comparable value, in terms of price, to an old Samsung Galaxy S21?
In that post they were talking about breaking things but of you do carefully nothing will happen. I recommend removing apps before connecting to internet.
I am doing it for years
I came here genuinely hoping for thoughtful privacy solutions for my current phone. What a disappointment to discover the collective wisdom amounted to “buy a different phone” – specifically a Pixel that barely exists in my market. My budget constraints and local availability apparently make me unworthy of privacy.
I expected nuanced advice from a community that understands technology has diverse users with different constraints. Instead, I was scolded for supposedly not researching and directed to a guide with all the substance of morning fog. The follow-up “tips” sounded like privacy fortune cookies being read to me.
even then I would’ve gotten a pixel for the same price as the S10 (used or otherwise) than this really. Yes that’s a W from samsung with the A16 to offer 6 years but I digress.
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