Facebook had their Onavo VPN app removed from Apple’s app store after it was discovered that the app violated Apple’s privacy policies, this happened last year.
Onavo VPN and Privacy Concerns
The Onavo VPN app was initially marketed as a way to keep users’ data safe and secure while browsing the internet. However, it was later revealed that the app was collecting extensive data on users’ online activities and sending this information back to Facebook. This data collection included details about which apps were being used and for how long, providing Facebook with valuable insights into user behavior and app usage trends. This practice was in direct violation of Apple’s stringent privacy policies, leading to the app’s removal from the Apple App Store.
Removal from Google Play Store
Now Facebook has decided to remove their Onavo VPN app from the Google Play Store as well. This decision came after it was discovered that the company was using code from the Onavo app in their Facebook Research App. The Facebook Research App was designed to gather data on user habits and preferences, similar to Onavo, but it was intended for a more targeted audience, including teenagers. The app offered users monetary compensation in exchange for their participation, which involved granting Facebook extensive access to their mobile device usage.
The controversy surrounding the Facebook Research App intensified when it was revealed that the app was bypassing standard app store policies by using enterprise certificates. These certificates are typically reserved for internal corporate use, allowing companies to distribute apps internally without going through the public app store review process. Facebook’s misuse of these certificates to distribute the app externally was a clear violation of both Apple and Google’s policies.
Developer Certificate Revocation and Restoration
Facebook recently had their developer certificate revoked after it was discovered that the company was using apps which were supposed to be internal only externally. This was discovered by TechCrunch recently. The revocation of the developer certificate had significant implications for Facebook, as it temporarily disabled the company’s ability to distribute internal apps to its employees. This included critical tools used for communication, testing, and development within the company.
Since then, Apple has restored the company’s developer certificates and is allowing Facebook to run its internal apps again. The restoration came after Facebook pledged to comply with Apple’s policies and ensure that their apps would not misuse enterprise certificates in the future. This incident has highlighted the importance of adhering to app store guidelines and maintaining transparency in data collection practices.
Broader Implications and Industry Response
The removal of the Onavo VPN app and the subsequent controversy surrounding the Facebook Research App have broader implications for the tech industry. It underscores the growing scrutiny on how companies collect and use user data, particularly in light of increasing concerns about privacy and data security. Both Apple and Google have taken steps to tighten their app store policies and enforce stricter guidelines to protect user privacy.
For example, Apple has introduced new privacy features in its iOS updates, such as App Tracking Transparency, which requires apps to obtain explicit user consent before tracking their activities across other apps and websites. Similarly, Google has implemented measures to enhance user privacy in its Android operating system, including more granular controls over app permissions and data access.
These developments reflect a broader shift towards prioritizing user privacy and data protection in the tech industry. Companies are being held accountable for their data collection practices, and there is a growing demand for greater transparency and user control over personal information.
Source TechCrunch
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