On my mobile I use a pixel 4, I tried Graphene OS but my banking failed so back to stock Android
Here in Australia I just use a physical card for tap and go for payments etc or use cash. No need for Google Pay or bank payments app. Can log in via my bank via a web browser to move cash about or check spending.
I think you demonstrated the entire point, people prefer invasive convenience over privacy., along with flimsy justification. Not having a go, it’s exactly what most people say when I query them about privacy, “It’s so much eaaier and how I manage” etc etc.
Then we have your FB messenger thing. Dead lord, stop that. If they don’t want to chat to me on Signal, they’re obviously not my friend.
I am aure they’d rather be busy doing other things but if the Governmwnt starts taking liberties and shits on the Constitution, then we need someone to step up to the plate… Shame on the Government.