Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Apple Collecting And Sharing Users' Locations Data

If you have an Apple device that has a GPS in it and have recently downloaded anything, forcing you t agree to new terms of services, this is talking about you. Apple says that nothing it is releasing can be traced back to you, but we have seen on numerous occasions in the past that anonymous data can be used to identify specific people. There does not appear to be a way to op out unless you do not want to download anything new.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/2010/06/apple-location-privacy-iphone-ipad.html

"Apple Inc. is now collecting the "precise," "real-time geographic location" of its users' iPhones, iPads and computers.

In an updated version of its privacy policy, the company added a paragraph noting that once users agree, Apple and unspecified "partners and licensees" may collect and store user location data.

When users attempt to download apps or media from the iTunes store, they are prompted to agree to the new terms and conditions. Until they agree, they cannot download anything through the store.

The company says the data is anonymous and does not personally identify users. Analysts have shown, however, that large, specific data sets can be used to identify people based on behavior patterns.
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