Google Maps could track your movements you even though if you have uninstalled it from your phone.
Security researchers have discovered that the search giant is able to keep tabs on Android devices using the GPS system in their phone - even if they don’t have Google Maps installed.
The company’s Google Play app store appears to be the culprit, as Google appears to have made it so that the service is constantly tracking your whereabouts unless location tracking is completely disabled.
The news was uncovered by security researcher Mustafa Al-Bassam, who noted that Google Play was responsible for prompting him to download the McDonald’s Android app when entering the restaurant.
Having thought that Google Maps was to blame, Al-Bassam tweeted that he "almost had a heart attack" when he realised that it was in fact Google Play that had monitored his location thousands of times.
Al-Bassam noted, "Kind of defeats the purpose of fine-grained privacy controls,", adding: "Google is encouraging developers to use the Play location API instead of the native Android API, making an open OS dependent on proprietary software."
Google says that it requires access to your location to keep your apps and the information they provide you with up to date - for example offering promotions to nearby restauarants, or real-time traffic information.
The Register notes that you can attempt to block Google Play’s access to your location by going to Settings > Apps > Google Play Store > Permissions, and disabling "location."
However this will not turn off Google Play services, as you’ll need to individually switch location services for all the apps you have installed on and off whenever you don’t want to be tracked.
Alternatively, you can go for the nuclear option and delete Google Maps and Google Play Store - although this will mean that you won’t be able to download any new apps.
The news come as Google introduces a host of new features into Maps in an aim to keep users connected to its app.
Earlier this month, the app received an upgrade which will let it provide even more information on businesses and locations in foreign surroundings, even if you can’t speak the local language.
The update, which launches in Japan today ahead of a worldwide release later this year, translates information about local businesses and facilities around you, from doctor’s offices to supermarkets.
The categories, which also include classifications such as restaurants and pharmacies, will then appear on your Google Maps view without needing to click on a business to open its listing.
The company also recently revealed that Google Maps users could soon see a lot more adverts on the app.
The testing of several new ad formats across the app is set to help businesses increase foot traffic from Maps users.
Another feature being trialled is Promoted Pins, which brings up the logo of the business on the map.
The corporate logo also appears next to the store name when the user clicks on the location, providing a visual reassurance that they are heading the right way, as well as displaying information such as opening hours and any vouchers.
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