In Spain, police are mass-checking owners of Google Pixel smartphones due to their popularity among drug dealers
The Spanish police are massively checking users of Google Pixel smartphones. According to the observations of law enforcement officers, these devices are often used by drug dealers and members of criminal gangs, informs Android Authority.
Google Pixel smartphones themselves are not the reason for the increased interest of law enforcement officers. The main focus is on Android’s open architecture, which allows you to install alternative operating systems.
In particular, Catalan drug traffickers install the GrapheneOS system on their devices, which is a protected version of Android, cleaned of Google services and potential surveillance. In addition, attackers actively use Google’s built-in security tools: for example, the Find My Device function, which allows you to remotely block a smartphone or completely delete information from it.
“Every time we see a person with a Google Pixel in their hands, we suspect that they are involved in the trafficking of prohibited substances.” – said one of the employees of the Spanish police.
Police are trying to gain control over such devices by infecting them with malware to gain access to the data stored on them.
Meanwhile, the new Pixel 10 line of smartphones is expected to be unveiled on August 20 — two months ahead of the traditional October release. Google is preparing four models: Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL and foldable Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
According to preliminary information, this year the complex model will receive a reduced price tag, and the entire line will receive an analogue of the MagSafe function from the iPhone. Among the expected accessories at the start of sales are a charging station, a holder with a ring and a vertical stand.
