Where to even begin… GAH! While this article focuses on the iPhone (and why not given that everyone assumes that anything Apple is impervious to viruses, malware and security failures), this is an epidemic. Honestly, there is no privacy unless you are truly 'off the grid'. Multi-page user agreements and enticing free apps with ambiguous permissions descriptions claim victims from all consumer electronics. Even video game systems - portable ones included - ask for your permission to grab 'anonymous, user identity free' metrics and information in the background or even after you've powered the system down.
I found it interesting how many Android users were parroting the bravado normally associated with Macheads… so many statements about Android devices being impervious to infiltration unless the user does something stupid or illegal. That's a pretty bold statement… especially in light of Apple's recent issues with privacy and viruses. I own an Android smart phone and have had Android on my last 3 phones. The most recent and presumably secure phone (Droid Incredible 2) has been overrun with spam apps and text ads. There was nothing in the permissions of any of my apps that would overtly account for this, and yet there they are. My phone is also loaded with Verizon bloatware… some of which is collecting data.
Amazon is tracking content on the Kindle… how and what people read… and even what they highlight. They even make efforts to follow you as you travel through the interwebs after you've left their online store. If you use a loyalty card at any store for any reason, your information is forfeit. Homeland security was even using loyalty cards to track shopping habits and purchases. One of their big red flags? Hummus consumption. Profile much?
I guess my point is that as shitty as it is that this is happening on the iPhone, it's nothing new and it certainly isn't unique to Apple devices. Hell… DMVs have been selling our info for years. Buyer beware doesn't even cut it anymore; most user agreements are either ridiculously long and riddled with legalese or ambiguous at best. Unless you have your lawyer present, it's a crap shoot. And it sucks. Welcome to the real world, Macheads.
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