Android apps leaking user information
Staff Reporter 2013-03-17 15:53
A model with a tablet running on the Android operating system. (Photo/Xinhua)
Google's Android marketplace may be violating the privacy of its users by leaking their personal information to mobile app developers and potential hackers, reports the state-owned China News Service.
Information that will reportedly be shared include the location, phone book and phone ID of the user.
Many games running on the Android operating system are capable of accessing the information contained in the smartphone on which the games are being played. Some of these games may also upload information or download updates automatically without the knowledge of users, making them easy targets for hackers.
China's national broadcaster CCTV urged the government to come up with stricter laws or regulations in response to the problem, and encouraged smartphone users to be more aware of potential security risks and their ability to restrict access to personal information in app settings.
