New Android Feature Raises Concerns Over Phone Photo Monitoring

A recent Android system update has sparked widespread debate among users and privacy experts following the discovery of an application or system service called Android System SafetyCore, which is automatically installed on some devices.

The service analyzes photos stored on the phone for sensitive content, such as nudity or other potentially inappropriate material, using artificial intelligence technologies that operate directly on the device.

What is SafetyCore?

According to technical reports, SafetyCore is a system component developed by Google that acts as an internal security layer for applications such as Google Messages. Its primary function is to detect sensitive content in images or messages and display a warning to users before they open or share it.

Google states that this process is performed locally on the device, without sending photos to external servers. In other words, the data does not leave the phone. However, the automatic installation of the service without a clear notification to users has raised significant concerns.

How Does It Work?

The service relies on machine learning technologies to analyze images directly on the device.

When an image containing potentially sensitive content is detected, it may be blurred or partially hidden, and a warning message is displayed before it can be viewed. Users are then given the option to proceed with viewing the image or ignore the warning.

Google says the feature is intended to protect users, particularly minors, from exposure to unwanted content.

Privacy Concerns

Despite Google’s assurances, the service has faced criticism due to its automatic installation without explicit user consent and the difficulty of locating it within the system settings.

Experts argue that the lack of transparency raises questions about the level of control users have over their personal data, even if all processing takes place directly on the device.

Can It Be Removed?

Technical reports indicate that users can access their phone settings, display system applications, search for SafetyCore, and then choose to uninstall or disable it.

However, some users have reported that the service may return after future system updates, requiring the process to be repeated.