“My Google account got suspended because of NewPipe” (github.com)

Article summary

A user's Google account was suspended due to alleged use of a third-party app, NewPipe, to bypass YouTube ads. The user claims to have only used NewPipe to watch videos and not download any content. The suspension resulted in the user losing access to their Google account and having to factory reset their phone. The user is unsure how Google detected the use of NewPipe, as it does not require Google account information to function.

Main themes

• Google account suspension
• NewPipe app
• YouTube ad bypassing
• Data backup and security
• Cloud service reliability

What commenters say

• Regularly downloading backups of Gmail and other cloud data is crucial to prevent data loss in case of account suspension or termination.
• Using alternative email services and avoiding dependence on a single cloud provider can help mitigate the risks of account suspension.
• Google's suspension policies and detection methods are unclear and may be overly broad, leading to unintended consequences for users.
• The use of third-party apps to bypass ads may be against Google's terms of service, but the severity of the punishment is debated.
• Some users question the authenticity of the story, citing the lack of evidence and potential for trolling.
• The importance of having a local backup of data, such as photos, is emphasized to prevent loss in case of cloud service issues.
• The GDPR may provide some protections for users in terms of accessing their data, even in the event of account suspension or termination.