Travel

Is Waze Safe?

Owned by Google • Last updated January 2026

📋 Short Answer:
Waze has typical privacy practices for its category. Collects standard data for service operation and may share with partners.
PrivacyDefend Safety Score
4.5/10
Below Average
Data Collection
🔴 Extensive
Encryption
🟡 Partial
Third-Party Sharing
🔴 Yes
Privacy Controls
🟡 Average

📊 What Data Does Waze Collect?

Waze has extensive data collection practices. Here's what they collect:

This level of data collection is concerning for apps in the travel category.

Why This Matters

The data Waze collects can be used for personalization, advertising, analytics, and may be shared with third parties. Understanding what's collected helps you make informed privacy decisions.

🔒 Waze Encryption & Security

Encryption Level: Partial

Encryption in transit and at rest. Not end-to-end encrypted.

What This Means For You

Your data is encrypted during transmission but may be accessible by the company on their servers.

🔗 Does Waze Share Your Data?

Third-Party Sharing: Yes

Shares data with advertising partners and third-party services. Part of Google's data ecosystem.

✅ What's Good

  • Partial encryption
  • Average privacy controls

❌ Concerns

  • Extensive data collection
  • Shares data with third parties
  • Part of larger data ecosystem

🔄 Safer Alternatives to Waze

Looking for more privacy-focused options? Consider these alternatives:

🛡️ Recommended Privacy Products

Enhance your privacy when using Waze with these tools:

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our privacy research.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is Waze safe to use in 2026?
Waze has typical privacy practices for its category. Collects standard data for service operation and may share with partners.
What data does Waze collect about me?
Waze collects: location, travel history, payment info, preferences. This is considered extensive data collection.
Does Waze sell my personal data?
Shares data with advertising partners and third-party services. Part of Google's data ecosystem.
Is Waze safe for kids?
We recommend parental supervision. Check our detailed analysis for kids.
What are safer alternatives to Waze?
Consider: . See our alternatives section above.

Last updated: January 2026 • Review by PrivacyDefend Research Team