Rooting for security and privacy ?

[katzo]

(Newb!)

Hello,

I recently purchased a Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 and realized that even basic apps like galery etc. cannot be used without permission for GPS positioning.

Privacy is quiet important to me. So therefore I'm looking for a way to use the Redmi Note 4 with the data I'm giving away at the very minimum.

1.) Is rooting my Redmi Note 4 and installing a custom ROM a possability to keep more of my data away from 3rd party interests?

To root my Redmi Note 4 I need to unlock the bootloader. Therefore it seems unavoidable that I need to register my MI account and device.

2.) Am I not giving away the maybe obtained privacy by registering the device to Xiaomi?

Thanks.

 

[Hadron]

What does registering involve? Do you give them any personal information, or is it like HTC's bootloader unlock where you give them an anonymous email address and that's it (though they can work out what phone model is associated to that address if you obtain an unlock key from them)?

As for security and privacy, do you know how you would use root to improve that? You could simply look for another gallery app (for example) that doesn't ask for the privileges you aren't happy with (or will still run if you don't grant them). Chances are it's only asking for location to allow it to geotag pictures (something I always disable, but some people like).

I'm afraid I know nothing about this device so can't help with any specifics.

 

[psionandy]

Also worth pointing out, that rooting itself doesn't make your device safer, in your case it would be the first step of the process.

Its a bit like getting your car engine cover unlocked.... once its unlocked, you still have to go in and tweak the engine

 

[Hadron]

Actually rooting in itself makes the phone slightly less secure (malware or thieves could use the facilities you have granted yourself too). So if security is the priority you need to know how you will use these capabilities to make the phone more secure.