Definitely avoid using Google products as much as possible. Use Aurora and F-Droid to install apps.
F-Droid at least will have basic open source apps that replace things like your SMS messenger and phone launcher as examples
Privacy has become a very important issue in modern society, with companies and governments constantly abusing their power, more and more people are waking up to the importance of digital privacy.
In this community everyone is welcome to post links and discuss topics related to privacy.
[Matrix/Element]Dead
much thanks to @gary_host_laptop for the logo design :)
Definitely avoid using Google products as much as possible. Use Aurora and F-Droid to install apps.
F-Droid at least will have basic open source apps that replace things like your SMS messenger and phone launcher as examples
The google services are preinstalled they'll send data nonetheless
I recommend you to root your phone. With a rooted device you can debloat your phone very easily with UAD (universal Android debloater) for example. Delete any Google related app and of course any diagnostic app from OnePlus. After you deleted Googles apps including gms (!) You can install microG via an magisk module named microG installer for magisk. You don't need the Playstore, use Aurora instead. But first search on Fdroid if there is an opensource alternative for what you're looking for.
All of this might take an evening, but after it, you have peace of mind. Note that for root, you'll have to unlock the bootloader. This will wipe your data, so do a backup beforehand.
If you want to, I can give you a more detailed guide.