Trevor Eckhart is a security researcher who has appeared a lot in the news over the last week, as he discovered hidden software from mobile phone monitoring company Carrier iQ on a number of smartphones.
The company Carrier IQ had been virtually unheard of until Trevor discovered their software on his device. After posting the information online, the company threatened him with legal action. Luckily, the Electronic Frontier Foundation helped him out, and Carrier IQ backed down. Now, we have a video from Trevor which shows exactly what this software does.
What Carrier IQ Software Does
As you can see in the video, the Carrier IQ software clearly logs information that is entered into the device, including the content of text messages, and more. This raises significant privacy concerns, as it isn’t clear what particular privacy policy covers this hidden software. The software operates in the background, collecting data without the user’s explicit consent. This includes keystrokes, browsing history, and even location data.
The mobile carriers and the handset makers obviously know the software is there, but it is quite a shock to see how much information is collected. This data collection happens basically without your permission, as according to Trevor, there is no reference to the software anywhere on the device. This lack of transparency is troubling, especially in an era where data privacy is becoming increasingly important.
Implications for User Privacy
The discovery of Carrier IQ’s software has significant implications for user privacy. In an age where personal data is highly valuable, the idea that a third-party company can collect such detailed information without user consent is alarming. This data could potentially be used for various purposes, including targeted advertising, analytics, or even more nefarious activities if it falls into the wrong hands.
Moreover, the fact that this software is pre-installed on devices by manufacturers and carriers means that users have little to no control over its presence. This situation underscores the need for stronger regulations and transparency in how user data is collected and used. Users should have the right to know what data is being collected and for what purpose, and they should have the ability to opt-out if they choose.
You can find out more information over at Trevor’s website Android Security Test.
Source Wired
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