You’ve probably heard that our smartphones listen to our conversations, but is that really true?
Check Point® Software analyzed the truth behind the iPhone myths, and concluded that Apple’s smartphone may indeed be passively listening to users’ conversations, but perhaps not in the intrusive and illegal way we might imagine.
Apple does not sell data to third parties for marketing purposes, having already explicitly stated this in response to a 2018 US Congressional inquiry: “The customer is not our product and our business model does not depend on collecting large amounts of personally identifiable information…”
One of the main reasons why iPhones listen to their “owners” conversations is to detect voice commands, such as “Hey Siri”.
Furthermore, and although it is unlikely, it is possible that applications may also be “listening”. However, third-party applications are required to obtain explicit user consent when collecting microphone data.
When it comes to advertising, devices use sophisticated machine learning algorithms that analyze language to find ad targeting opportunities.
“It’s probably not a coincidence if you had a conversation about buying a new car and, shortly after, corresponding ads appear,” says Check Point® Software.
However, they explain that Apple does everything in its power to ensure that iPhones do not spy. Theoretically, accidents could occur, although the chances are low and these are clear violations of Apple’s rules.
They also say that this situation should not worry us. If you’re concerned about this issue, keep in mind that newer generations of iPhones have an indicator at the top of the screen that shows when the microphone and camera are on. The light turns orange when the microphone is on. Turns green when the camera is on.
If you’re concerned about your iPhone privacy, consider the suggestions below:
Go to Settings > Siri & Search. Then disable the following:
– Listen to ‘Hey Siri’
– Press the side button for Siri
– Allow Siri when blocked
2024-01-21 10:30:39
#iPhones #hear
