We know this is happening, but there isn’t a straightforward way to stop it.

Fortunately, with the right apps, you might end much of this tracking.

Aurora Store

Aurora is an alternative way to access and download Play Store apps.

Android phone on a table

With Aurora, you’re free to download apps anonymously without creating a Google account.

But you’re free to limit tracking further using the extra information it reveals about apps.

And you learn which trackers need blocking using other means and what permissions to revoke.

Each app has a ‘data safety’ section on Google Play.

Download:Aurora Store(Free)

3.

This is a firewall app that doesn’t require you to root your gear.

By default, NetGuard lets you block traffic on the app level.

Some of the details in an app’s ‘data safety’ section.

This includes Google Play Services.

NetGuard can also get more granular, enabling you to block specific connections.

This is handy if you wish to use an app but only want to stop its background tracking.

Details on a Google Play page about what an app collects.

Download:NetGuard(Free, in-app purchases available)

4.

DuckDuckGo Private net internet ride

NetGuard can get complex and intimidating.

If you want to block third-party tracking without going so hands-on,check out DuckDuckGo’s App Tracking Protection.

‘Privacy’ section on an app’s page in the Aurora store.

Using DuckDuckGo as your surfing app also blocks some of the tracking you encounter when browsing the web.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean we can’t do anything about it.

You have the power to stop them while still using your phone to do what you love.

The details contained within an app’s privacy report in Aurora.

Apps listed within the NetGuard Android app.

Settings within the NetGuard app.

System settings that you can block internet access to using NetGuard.

Settings with the DuckDuckGo Android app.

The DuckDuckGo Android app requesting permission to start a VPN connection.

A list of trackers blocked by DuckDuckGo’s App Tracking Protection.