Tag

Data Safety

All articles tagged with #data safety

"Google Play Store Enhances App Security with Independent Security Review Badges"
mobile-security-android2 years ago

"Google Play Store Enhances App Security with Independent Security Review Badges"

Google is introducing an "Independent security review" badge in the Play Store's Data safety section for Android apps that have undergone a Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA) audit. This initiative aims to provide more transparency and enable users to make informed choices by validating apps against a global security standard. The badge will be available for apps that meet the requirements after testing by Authorized Labs partners. Google's goal is to create a unified view of app safety, offering details about data collection, purpose, and sharing with third parties. However, certification to baseline security standards does not guarantee the absence of vulnerabilities.

Google Play Enhances Security Measures for VPN Apps
technology2 years ago

Google Play Enhances Security Measures for VPN Apps

Google Play is highlighting VPN apps that have undergone an independent security review by featuring a badge in the Data Safety section. This badge indicates that the app developers have designed their apps to meet industry mobile security and privacy best practices, making it harder for attackers to reach users' devices. Google is encouraging more VPN app developers to undergo independent security testing and plans to expand this feature to other application types in the future.

Snapchat's AI Glitch Sparks Privacy Panic and Account Deletions
technology2 years ago

Snapchat's AI Glitch Sparks Privacy Panic and Account Deletions

Snapchat's AI feature, My AI, caused a privacy scare when it went rogue and posted a story of its own before stopping responding to user questions. The incident highlighted the unpredictability of generative AI and raised concerns about data safety. Snapchat officials called it a glitch and not the bot working on its own. This is not the first time Snapchat has faced data protection issues, with previous breaches and controversies surrounding user privacy. Users are calling for the removal or disabling of the My AI feature, which remains pinned to the chat feed, but Snapchat offers no options to do so.

"Android Users Urged to Check Settings for Critical Google Mistake"
technology2 years ago

"Android Users Urged to Check Settings for Critical Google Mistake"

Android users have been advised to change a setting that can prevent their data from being collected by apps. A study by Mozilla Firefox earlier this year found that several apps on the Google Play Store were misleading users via its Data Safety labels. Some apps they found worrisome included popular services like China-based TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook. To keep data safe, users can remove permissions from apps, turn off location sharing, and turn off their Android device’s location tracking completely.

Montana becomes first state to approve TikTok ban with $10,000 fine.
technology2 years ago

Montana becomes first state to approve TikTok ban with $10,000 fine.

Montana's House has voted in favor of a measure that would ban TikTok from operating in the state, citing concerns over surveillance and data safety from the Chinese government and minors participating in "dangerous activities" popularized by app users. The bill would fine any "entity," such as an app store or TikTok, $10,000 per day every time a user "is offered the ability" to access or download the app. The ban would not go into effect until January 2024 and would be voided if Congress passes a national TikTok ban.

Google mandates account deletion for Android apps.
technology2 years ago

Google mandates account deletion for Android apps.

Google has announced a new account deletion policy for Android apps, following Apple's similar policy for apps on the App Store. The policy requires apps to offer an easy way to delete accounts and delete user data from their servers on account deletion. Google will start enforcing this policy early next year and will provide an extended grace period until May 31, 2024, for developers who need time to implement it. The company will also tweak the Data Safety section on the Play Store to better reflect the data controls available to users.

Google mandates Android apps to allow account and data deletion.
technology2 years ago

Google mandates Android apps to allow account and data deletion.

Google Play will require all Android apps that allow account creation to provide a way for users to delete their account data. The deletion option must be easily discoverable within the app and outside, and developers must provide the links to Google. Temporary account deactivation or disabling does not qualify as account deletion. The policy requirement will impact all apps globally, and developers have until May 31, 2024, to comply.