Question:

I’ve taken several steps to resolve this, such as checking for unauthorized devices on my network, using Google’s DNS, and adjusting my Google account’s ad settings and location history. Despite these efforts, including setting my search results and language preferences to the UK, the issue persists. I’ve even considered deleting my Google account if necessary. Interestingly, after adjusting my settings, job salaries now display in pounds, but unless I specify the location on AngelList, I still receive job offers from India. This makes me wonder if there’s a perceived bias due to a high volume of Indian job listings on the site. Additionally, a user suggested that I might have a GEOIP issue, which was confirmed when a service indicated my location as India. Although my ISP temporarily resolved this by changing my IP, the problem reemerged shortly after. It seems I may need to resort to using a VPN to correct my geolocation. Can you provide expert advice on how to inform websites, particularly Google, that I am not Indian, and do not know the language or currency?”

Answer:

In the digital age, geolocation services play a crucial role in personalizing user experience on the internet. However, when these services misidentify a user’s location, it can lead to a cascade of inconveniences, as evidenced by the challenges you’ve faced with Google’s services erroneously identifying you as being in India.

Geolocation technology determines your location using various data points, including your IP address, Wi-Fi networks in proximity, and GPS data. When discrepancies arise, such as an IP address being incorrectly associated with a foreign country, users may encounter skewed search results, language preferences, and targeted advertisements.

Steps You’ve Taken:

You’ve diligently checked for unauthorized devices, adjusted Google’s DNS settings, and fine-tuned your Google account’s ad settings and location history. These are commendable first steps. Setting your search results and language preferences to the UK should ideally inform Google’s algorithms of your actual location. Yet, the persistence of the issue suggests a deeper problem, likely related to your IP address being geo-tagged incorrectly.

Expert Advice:

1.

Contact Your ISP:

Since the issue briefly resolved after your ISP changed your IP, it’s worth contacting them again to explain the situation and seek a permanent IP reassignment.

2.

Use a VPN:

A VPN can mask your IP address, making it appear as if you’re accessing the internet from a different location. Choose a VPN provider with servers in the UK to ensure your online activities are associated with your actual location.

3.

Review Account Settings:

Double-check all location settings in your Google account, including those in Google Maps and any other Google services you use. Ensure that all references to India are removed and that your current UK location is accurately reflected.

4.

Clear Cache and Cookies:

Regularly clear your browser’s cache and cookies. Persistent cookies might be retaining settings that continue to misidentify your location.

5.

Feedback to Google:

Use Google’s feedback tool to report the incorrect geolocation. Google allows users to submit feedback directly through various services, including Google Search and Maps.

6.

Consider Browser Alternatives:

If the issue is isolated to Google services, try using alternative browsers and search engines that don’t rely on past data to personalize content.

7.

AngelList Settings:

For AngelList, ensure that your profile and search settings explicitly state your location as the UK. This should filter out irrelevant job listings from India.

Conclusion:

The internet’s reliance on geolocation can sometimes lead to frustrating experiences. However, by taking the steps outlined above, you can begin to rectify the situation. Persistence is key, and with each adjustment, you should move closer to a resolution. If problems persist, consider reaching out to a professional who can provide personalized assistance based on your specific circumstances. Remember, you have the right to an online experience that accurately reflects your location and preferences.