What Waze Knows About You
Waze operates in the Navigation space and has built its business around collecting extensive user data. This expose reveals the full scope of Waze's data collection practices, privacy incidents, and what users can do to protect themselves. Understanding these practices is essential for anyone who uses Waze's products or services.
Privacy Score
40PoorLower scores indicate more invasive data collection practices
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What Data Waze Collects
Based on our analysis of Waze's privacy policies, terms of service, and independent research, here is what they collect about you. Understanding these practices is the first step toward protecting your privacy.
Uses machine learning to infer sensitive attributes from behavioral data
Collects typing patterns and keyboard usage data
Uses shadow profiles to track non-users through contacts of existing users
Collects financial transaction data for profiling purposes
Retains deleted messages and content on servers for extended periods
Shares user data with third-party advertising networks without explicit consent
Collects accelerometer and gyroscope data from mobile devices
Privacy Incidents
A record of known privacy incidents, data breaches, and regulatory actions involving Waze. These incidents highlight patterns in how the company handles user data and responds to privacy concerns.
Location data sold to data brokers
Reports confirmed Waze sold precise location data to data brokers who then resold it to various organizations.
Affected: Users with location services enabled
What You Can Do
Practical steps you can take right now to protect your privacy and reduce your exposure to Waze's data collection practices.
Review and restrict Waze's privacy settings immediately
Request a copy of all data Waze has collected about you
Use privacy-focused alternatives where possible
Enable all available privacy protections in Waze's settings
Consider deleting your Waze account if you no longer need the service
Use a VPN when accessing Waze's services to limit IP tracking
Take Back Your Privacy
Tired of companies like Waze profiting from your personal data? Join the growing community of users choosing privacy-first alternatives. Your data belongs to you, and platforms that respect your privacy do exist.
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