By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
If you’ve ever mentioned something out loud — like “rice” — only to see ads about it minutes later, you’re not crazy. According to NewsVista tech analysts, your phone might be listening, tracking, and collecting your data silently.
Many users complain about:
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Weirdly accurate ads
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Sudden battery drain
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Apps knowing your exact location — even when closed
The truth? It’s not magic — it’s hidden permissions you never noticed.
Here’s how to take your privacy back in minutes:
1. Disable Microphone Access
Many popular apps secretly use your mic to gather info — even when you’re not recording.
How to fix it:
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Android: Settings → Apps → Permissions → Microphone → Deny access for social apps
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iPhone: Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone → Toggle off for apps that don’t need it
If you’re not on a call or recording, your mic should be OFF.
2. Stop Location Tracking
Your phone constantly shares your GPS location with apps — even ones that don’t need it.
🔧 How to fix it:
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Android: Settings → Location → App permissions → Set to “While using” or “Deny”
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iPhone: Settings → Privacy → Location Services → Adjust app-by-app
Only map or ride apps should know your location — not games or photo editors.
3. Block Background App Activity
Some apps stay active even after closing — draining your battery and collecting info.
🔧 How to fix it:
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Android: Settings → Battery → Background usage limits → Restrict unused apps
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iPhone: Settings → General → Background App Refresh → Turn off for apps you don’t trust
Just because an app is “closed” doesn’t mean it’s not watching.
Final Note from NewsVista:
Your smartphone is smart — sometimes too smart. But you can fight back.
Take 5 minutes.
Turn off these 3 settings.
Reclaim your privacy and battery life.