If they found out it goes to a specific server, why not just block the server and maybe isolate the network from the internet? I guess its easier to replace them but what’s to say the replacements can’t have the same flaw if other precautions aren’t in place, like how do you even get to installing cameras on military bases without thoroughly vetting the firmware on them fist?
Pixel is the best option, you dont need root these days for anything good, you can still root if you really want to but it defeats a lot of security that you’d otherwise have and for what gain?
I don’t think any other phones would have a larger modding scene then Pixels either.