In Spain, particularly in the region of Catalonia, a surprising trend has emerged: Google Pixel phones are preferred by drug dealers and gang members. This preference has led police in the area to be particularly wary of anyone spotted with a Pixel phone. An officer involved in anti-drug operations noted that every time they encounter a Google Pixel, there is a suspicion that it might belong to a drug dealer. The association between Pixel phones and criminal activity stems from the open-source nature of Android, the operating system that powers these devices.

Criminals find it advantageous to install alternative operating systems on Pixel phones, with GrapheneOS being a popular choice. This operating system is praised for its privacy and security measures, ensuring that user data remains outside Google’s reach. The compatibility of Pixel devices with GrapheneOS makes them the preferred option for those engaged in illicit activities. Interestingly, it has been reported that criminals sometimes remove the cameras from their Pixel phones.

This practice, while not universal, is common in the region as individuals seek to obscure their identities and activities. In response, law enforcement has developed strategies to counteract this trend. One of their methods includes infecting Pixel phones with malware aimed specifically at accessing data on devices running GrapheneOS. This tactic allows police to gain insights into apps, media, documents, and more that may be used for illegal activities.

In essence, the connection between Pixel phones and organized crime in Catalonia highlights the broader implications of Android’s modifiability. It reflects how the very features that make these devices popular among some users can also be exploited for nefarious purposes, creating a complex relationship between technology and crime.