It should perhaps be pointed out that the linked "blog post claiming MacOS X recently started scanning local files and reporting information about them to Apple

It should perhaps be pointed out that the linked "blog post claiming MacOS X recently started scanning local files and reporting information about them to Apple" is pure BS, FUD. As has been described in detail on many[1] places[2] on the internet. Apple are NOT spying on you. This is a VLU feature. Otherwise known as "Siri Suggestions". Don't want the callback to Apple on images, disable "Siri Suggestions". End of story. The false attempts at linking Siri to the discontinued Apple CSAM is pure BS, FUD. [1] https://eclecticlight.co/2022/04/08/how-to-enable-use-and-fix-visual-look-up/ https://eclecticlight.co/2022/04/08/how-to-enable-use-and-fi... [2] https://eclecticlight.co/2023/01/18/is-apple-checking-images-we-view-in-the-finder/ https://eclecticlight.co/2023/01/18/is-apple-checking-images... Edit to add: 1) In fact, Apple make this crystal clear if you can be bothered to look into "About Search & Privacy" in System Settings before firing up your blog editor and composing a completely unsubstantiated FUD-fueled rant .... "About Search & Privacy" You Have Choice and Control If you do not want Suggestions from Apple to send your information to Apple, you can disable that option by going to System Settings > Spotlight > Search Results and deselecting Siri Suggestions. You can disable Safari Suggestions in Safari by going to Safari > Settings > Search and deselecting Include Safari Suggestions. 2) In addition, in relation to submitted information, Apple also make it crystal clear that IF you leave the feature enabled the data is not personally identifiable: Any information sent to Apple does not identify you, and is associated with a 15-minute random, rotating, device-generated identifier. This information may include location, topics of interest (for example, cooking or football), your search queries, suggestions you have selected, apps you use and related device usage data. This information does not include search results that show files or content on your device. If you subscribe to music or video subscription services, the names of these services and the type of subscription may be sent to Apple. Your account name, number and password will not be sent to Apple. This information is used to process your request and provide more relevant suggestions and search results, and is not linked to your Apple ID, email address or other data Apple may have from your use of other Apple services.