Google Libraries

impishparadox

Can Google retrieve a list of packages installed within a profile if one of the packages contained Google libraries? Assume any GMS package is not installed.

unwat

impishparadox

Yes. It's possible.

impishparadox

unwat

Interesting. How would I verify if an app contains libraries from Google?

Also, is it fair to assume that any app that relies on Google's FCM contains these libraries? If so, then I believe privacy-focused apps such as Signal might be potentially leaking its user's package list, since it does rely on FCM when GSM Is detected.

mythodical

impishparadox if you're using open source apps, reviewing the source code yourself is likely the easiest option (perhaps with some learning curve).

However, if you're truly concerned about Google obtaining your package list or other info, I would suggest avoiding GMS altogether, or at least isolating those services and their dependent apps to a dedicated profile.

impishparadox

mythodical

I see. I'll try to give reviewing a shot then.

I do have GMS isolated to a separate profile. I was just curious on how much information Google is able to retrieve from a user when GMS and any Google app isn't installed, since I have Signal located in my main profile.

impishparadox

Since I can't edit my post, I'll repost it here:

I do have GMS isolated to a separate profile. I was just curious on how much information Google is able to retrieve from a user when GMS and any Google app isn't installed. But an app that contains its libraries is.