You weren't kidding, holy shit. Like, I understand wanting to make sure that your privacy is protected at all costs, but at the same time some of these suggestions sound straight up tinfoil hat.
The US is not some fucked up dystopian police state where everyone is "out to get" the next person they see on the street (but I'll wholeheartedly agree that some parts are absolute shit). No, there aren't cities where if you blink all your shit's gonna be stolen (parts of some, sure). In fact, most people will actually actively try to lend a hand, the worst that might happen is a total stranger ignores you when it's obvious you may need help with something.
Idk, as an American who's travelled the US quite a bit, I guess it kinda pisses me off when I see generalizing statements like those. Just like it would literally anyone else.
Edit: if you're truly worried, why not just stay home or something?
Was a whole process and a half for me. I ended up finally getting it though.
I'd rather just not watch YouTube if I'd have to watch it with ads through their shitty regular app.