FBI Warns iPhone And Android Users-Do Not Install These Apps
Yahoo News UK • • business
Key Points:
- The FBI has issued a Public Service Announcement warning U.S. citizens about the data security risks posed by popular foreign-developed mobile apps, particularly those from China, which are widely used in the United States.
- Chinese national security laws compel developers to share user data with the government, raising concerns about privacy and potential misuse of personal information collected by these apps.
- The bureau highlights that many apps request extensive permissions, enabling persistent data collection including contacts and personal details, which can be exploited for social engineering and hacking.
- Some apps store user data on servers in China indefinitely, and users often must consent to data sharing to use the app, with limited options to opt out.
- The FBI advises only downloading apps from official stores, carefully reviewing terms of service, disabling unnecessary data sharing, regularly updating passwords, and keeping device software up to date to mitigate risks.
