Google’s Pixel Screenshot, Pixel Weather, and Google Starline projects have changed the way we use technology, making everyday tasks easier and more intuitive. Behind these exciting developments is Surabhi Nayak, whose expertise and dedication have brought these ideas to life. “Our goal is to ensure that as we create new tools, we prioritize user privacy, making them not only convenient but also secure,” says Nayak. With her leadership, these projects have become essential parts of our digital world, helping Google stay at the forefront of technology.
Nayak’s Professional Journey
Nayak began her career at Ernst & Young, where she worked with clients to enhance their data protection practices and meet industry standards like the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
During her tenure at Ernst & Young, Nayak spearheaded several initiatives to strengthen data protection and privacy across the organization. She led company-wide implementations of data classification technologies, ensuring that sensitive data was appropriately labeled and protected. Nayak was instrumental in developing and socializing a comprehensive data protection governance framework, which included updated policies, technical standards, and a robust controls framework aligned with GDPR and PCI DSS requirements.
Additionally, she was deeply involved in the configuration and deployment of Data Loss Prevention (DLP) and Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) solutions. These efforts focused on monitoring and securing data across all channels, from on-premises repositories to cloud environments. Through her leadership, Nayak enhanced the organization’s data security posture and promoted a culture of awareness and responsibility around data protection through extensive end-user training and awareness programs.
Privacy by Design at Google
At Google, Nayak has been instrumental in ensuring that user privacy remains a top priority. As a Privacy Engineer, she has worked extensively on the Pixel phone, ensuring that every new feature and system design keeps user data safe. Collaborating closely with different teams, Nayak integrates privacy protections from the very beginning, guiding key decisions to effectively safeguard user information. “Protecting user privacy is not just about compliance; it’s about trust. My goal is to make sure our products respect and protect that trust,” says Nayak.
Deeply involved in the product development process, Nayak ensures that data collection and usage are transparent and private. Her thorough reviews of Pixel apps and features help identify potential privacy issues early on, making sure that Google’s high standards for user protection are consistently met. This proactive approach allows the company to address risks before products reach the market.
In addition to her work on Pixel, Nayak has also focused on emerging GenAI technologies, reviewing them to ensure they handle user data responsibly. She uses advanced methods, such as differential privacy, to anonymize data so that it cannot be traced back to individuals while still being useful for improving services. This approach is crucial for maintaining user confidentiality and is applied to various features of the Pixel phone under her guidance, helping Google uphold its strong commitment to user privacy throughout the entire product lifecycle.
Creating a Privacy-Centric Culture
Nayak is committed to building a culture of privacy at Google. She believes that privacy should be a core value embraced by all employees, from engineers to executives. Google supports this principle through continuous education and training, helping everyone understand their role in protecting user data.
In addition to her technical work, Nayak mentors other engineers, fostering the development of privacy-focused skills and advocating best practices in data protection. This mentorship helps create a knowledgeable team that supports a secure technology environment.
The Future of Privacy Engineering
As technology evolves, the role of privacy engineers like Nayak becomes increasingly crucial. The field of data protection faces ongoing challenges and risks, requiring privacy engineers to stay informed about new issues and regulations. Nayak’s work at Google highlights how proactive privacy measures and advanced techniques are essential for managing these challenges effectively.
Nayak remains dedicated to advancing the field of privacy engineering. Her contributions to setting privacy standards and protecting user data play a key role in supporting industry practices and enhancing the security of technology products.
Photo courtesy of Surabhi Nayak
