Howlin0001 Posted April 21, 2011 Share Posted April 21, 2011 I just saw this on the news Security researchers have discovered that Apple's iPhone keeps track of where you go and saves every detail of it to a secret file on the device which is then copied to the owner's computer when the two are synchronised. The file contains the latitude and longitude of the phone's recorded coordinates along with a timestamp, meaning that anyone who stole the phone or the computer could discover details about the owner's movements using a simple program. For some phones, there could be almost a year's worth of data stored, as the recording of data seems to have started with Apple's iOS 4 update to the phone's operating system, released in June 2010. "Apple has made it possible for almost anybody a jealous spouse, a private detective with access to your phone or computer to get detailed information about where you've been," said Pete Warden, one of the researchers. Only the iPhone records the user's location in this way, say Warden and Alasdair Allan, the data scientists who discovered the file and are presenting their findings at the Where 2.0 conference in San Francisco on Wednesday. "Alasdair has looked for similar tracking code in [Google's] Android phones and couldn't find any," said Warden. "We haven't come across any instances of other phone manufacturers doing this." Simon Davies, director of the pressure group Privacy International, said: "This is a worrying discovery. Location is one of the most sensitive elements in anyone's life just think where people go in the evening. The existence of that data creates a real threat to privacy. The absence of notice to users or any control option can only stem from an ignorance about privacy at the design stage." Warden and Allan point out that the file is moved onto new devices when an old one is replaced: "Apple might have new features in mind that require a history of your location, but that's our specualtion. The fact that [the file] is transferred across [to a new iPhone or iPad] when you migrate is evidence that the data-gathering isn't accidental." But they said it does not seem to be transmitted to Apple itself. Map shows location data collected from an iPhone that had been used in the southwest of England Although mobile networks already record phones' locations, it is only available to the police and other recognised organisations following a court order under the Regulation of Investigatory Power Act. Standard phones do not record location data. MPs in 2009 criticised the search engine giant Google for its "Latitude" system, which allowed people to enable their mobile to give out details of their location to trusted contacts. At the time MPs said that Latitude "could substantially endanger user privacy", but Google pointed out that users had to specifically choose to make their data available. The iPhone system, by contrast, appears to record the data whether or not the user agrees. Apple declined to comment on why the file is created or whether it can be disabled. Warden and Allan have set up a web page which answers questions about the file, and created a simple downloadable application to let Apple users check for themselves what location data the phone is retaining. The Guardian has confirmed that 3G-enabled devices including the iPad also retain the data and copy it to the owner's computer. If someone were to steal an iPhone and "jailbreak" it, giving them direct access to the files it contains, they could extract the location database directly. Alternatively, anyone with direct access to a user's computer could run the application and see a visualisation of their movements. Encrypting data on the computer is one way to protect against it, though that still leaves the file on the phone. Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at the security company Sophos, said: "If the data isn't required for anything, then it shouldn't store the location. And it doesn't need to keep an archive on your machine of where you've been." He suggested that Apple might be hoping that it would yield data for future mobile advertising targeted by location, although he added: "I tend to subscribe to cockup rather than conspiracy on things like this I don't think Apple is really trying to monitor where users are." The data inside the file containing the location and time information. This is used to plot the map above The location file came to light when Warden and Allan were looking for a source of mobile data. "We'd been discussing doing a visualisation of mobile data, and while Alasdair was researching into what was available, he discovered this file. At first we weren't sure how much data was there, but after we dug further and visualised the extracted data, it became clear that there was a scary amount of detail on our movements," Warden said. They have blogged about their discovery at O'Reilly's Radar site, noting that "why this data is stored and how Apple intends to use it or not are important questions that need to be explored." The pair of data scientists have collaborated on a number of data visualisations, including a map of radiation levels in Japan for The Guardian. They are developing a Data Science Toolkit for dealing with location data. Davies said that the discovery of the file indicated that Apple had failed to take users' privacy seriously. Apple can legitimately claim that it has permission to collect the data: near the end of the 15,200-word terms and conditions for its iTunes program, used to synchronise with iPhones, iPods and iPads, is an 86-word paragraph about "location-based services". It says that "Apple and our partners and licensees may collect, use, and share precise location data, including the real-time geographic location of your Apple computer or device. This location data is collected anonymously in a form that does not personally identify you and is used by Apple and our partners and licensees to provide and improve location-based products and services. For example, we may share geographic location with application providers when you opt in to their location services." Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2011/apr/20/iphone-tracking-prompts-privacy-fearsWhile Apple has told people about it in the T&C, but how many people really read the T&Cs every time you see them?I don't really see how Apple can have a legitimate reason for doing this. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jaffy1 Posted April 21, 2011 Share Posted April 21, 2011 *Glad she doesn't have an IPhone* Tip.It Website Crew Leader[hide=Quotes]I love it how Jafje comes outa nowhere and answers my questionsHehe now we know what real life does...drugs, drugs, more drugs. Thank god we are addicted to something that won't kill us. [/hide] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Riku3220 Posted April 21, 2011 Share Posted April 21, 2011 They allow you to input a code before you can unlock the phone so I don't really see the problem here. And hey, if somebody finds your phone on the bus or something they know where to return it now. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Observer Posted April 21, 2011 Share Posted April 21, 2011 I have heard that deals go on between governments and major computer companies. I wouldn't be surprised if it was one of those opportunities. I personally don't care if someone follows me where I go. If someone does get a hold of that information then it shows that they must really care that much about me. :razz: But I'm sure the majority of people do care, so I wouldn't mind if that feature was removed or could be disabled in some way or another. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pinkbullet3 Posted April 21, 2011 Share Posted April 21, 2011 But I'm sure the majority of people do care, so I wouldn't mind if that feature was removed or could be disabled in some way or another.Apple claims turning Location Services to "Off" will cease all transmission of geodata from a device to Apple. Photo: Jon Snyder/Wired.com :lol: "Apple claims..." Source: http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2011/04/apple-iphone-tracking/ ^ Blog. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Observer Posted April 21, 2011 Share Posted April 21, 2011 But I'm sure the majority of people do care, so I wouldn't mind if that feature was removed or could be disabled in some way or another.Apple claims turning Location Services to "Off" will cease all transmission of geodata from a device to Apple. Photo: Jon Snyder/Wired.com :lol: "Apple claims..." Source: http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2011/04/apple-iphone-tracking/ I didn't read the article, so yeah. But, as you said, it's a claim, so who knows :P Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stevepole Posted April 21, 2011 Share Posted April 21, 2011 It's kind of scary being an iPhone user, but I'm going to wait until Apple address the issue before I start freaking out. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kimberly Posted April 21, 2011 Share Posted April 21, 2011 They don't really need to address it though. It was in the T&C. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stevepole Posted April 22, 2011 Share Posted April 22, 2011 True, but surely if there is a large enough out cry about this, surely they will make some sort of mention of it, if not soon, in their next keynote presentation. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lenticular_J Posted April 22, 2011 Share Posted April 22, 2011 I thought that was brought up a while back as a good thing, so you can tell where it is if it's stolen? catch it now so you can like it before it went so mainstream Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
das1330 Posted April 22, 2011 Share Posted April 22, 2011 I thought that was brought up a while back as a good thing, so you can tell where it is if it's stolen? This. If there's no evidence that the data is being sent and used for nefarious purposes, nothing is wrong with this - all sorts of devices collect data regularly on movements, actions, and similar such activity. While installing an opt in/out switch on the phone would not be a bad idea, I don't see any evidence of wrongdoing on Apple's part. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dax Posted April 22, 2011 Share Posted April 22, 2011 Good thing I don't have one, nor do I plan to get one at any point in future. Not that knowing where I've been is of much importance to anyone. #KERR2016/17/18/19/20/21. #rpgformod Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RpgGamer Posted April 22, 2011 Share Posted April 22, 2011 I accepted this quirk when I bought it. Why do you think so many apps ask you to activate that locational thing? The creepy part is, if you allow locational info access to your camera, there's a way to backtrace where any photo taken by that iPhone down to a street name just by looking at the properties of the photo. So it doesn't matter where you upload it, people can see where you took the photo. That'll make you rethink all those bathroom shots :P Quote Quote Anyone who likes tacos is incapable of logic. Anyone who likes logic is incapable of tacos. PSA: SaqPrets is an Estonian Dude Steam: NippleBeardTM Origin: Brand_New_iPwn Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KittyKat Posted April 22, 2011 Share Posted April 22, 2011 Old news, don't really care considering I don't go anywhere too sketchy. e: I'm guessing the reason this even exists is for that MobileMe application that lets you locate your lost/stolen iPhone. I will put my boots on. I will pass on down the corridor. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
champion Posted April 22, 2011 Share Posted April 22, 2011 I hate "privacy scare" news like this. Nothing ever happens anyway, it's not really a big deal. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pinkbullet3 Posted April 22, 2011 Share Posted April 22, 2011 [spoiler=Off-topic.]I hate "privacy scare" news like this. Nothing ever happens anyway, it's not really a big deal.Agreed. Imagine how much dumb [cabbage] will be amplified once 12/21/2012 comes... "OMG SO AND SO SAID THIS. THE WORLD'S GONNA END." ^ Blog. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sbrideau Posted April 22, 2011 Share Posted April 22, 2011 [spoiler=Off-topic.]I hate "privacy scare" news like this. Nothing ever happens anyway, it's not really a big deal.Agreed. Imagine how much dumb [cabbage] will be amplified once 12/21/2012 comes... "OMG SO AND SO SAID THIS. THE WORLD'S GONNA END." 2012 got postponed lol. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kaphias Posted April 22, 2011 Share Posted April 22, 2011 It's not just your iPhone: http://m.yahoo.com/news?.ybx=hero#/stories/article?cat=top-stories&id=nm%2Fus_apple_google_privacy&ref_w=frontdoors 8,325th to 99 Firemaking 3/9/08 | 44,811th to 99 Cooking 7/16/084,968th to 99 Farming 10/9/09 | Runescaper August 2005-March 2010Tip.it Mod Feb. 2008-Sep. 2008 | Tip.it Crew Sep. 2008-Nov. 2009 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jasignhagj Posted April 23, 2011 Share Posted April 23, 2011 I wonder how long it'll be until this data can be used in court. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gandalf14141 Posted April 23, 2011 Share Posted April 23, 2011 Aaand this is why I'm happy I have a Motorola Droid. :thumbsup: Finally on here to update that I have officially quit! It's been fun.[hide=Signature]R.I.P Billy Mays and <3 My Friend C.D.S 7/8/09 <360,816th to 99 Fletching 03/07/09|220,309th Person to be Able to Kill Dusties | 10 Year Cape on 12/20/14[/hide] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Albel Posted April 24, 2011 Share Posted April 24, 2011 I thought that was brought up a while back as a good thing, so you can tell where it is if it's stolen? This. If there's no evidence that the data is being sent and used for nefarious purposes, nothing is wrong with this - all sorts of devices collect data regularly on movements, actions, and similar such activity. While installing an opt in/out switch on the phone would not be a bad idea, I don't see any evidence of wrongdoing on Apple's part.Exactly. Phones that run the Android software have the same thins on it. I think you can turn it off at anytime though. I am an HTC owner that has android software on the phone, and I'm not the least bit worried. I didn't even think about it till I saw this thread. [hide=Quotes]Albel/JustinAlbel doesn't say anything anymore, just comes in, leaves an arrow and vanishes into the night :(Probablypractising some euphoniumYou nearly had me fooled, you fooler youEuphonium/10.9/10. To me, always associate Albel with musical stuff in OT.Everyone with a goatee and glasses is Albel now.lmfao albel m8 wat r u doin, hi though. [/hide][hide=Runescape Achievements]99 firemaking(2007), 99 woodcutting(2008), 99 fletching(2009), 99 magic(2010), 99 cooking(2010), 99 farming(2011), 99 construction(2011), 99 runecrafting(2012), 99 Hunter (2014), 99 ranged (2015), 99 HP (2015), 99 Slayer (2015), 99 attack (2015) 99 Defense (2015) 99 Prayer (2015) 99 Summoning (2015) 99 Strength(2015) 99 Herblore (2015) 99 Dungeoneering (2017) 99 Mining (2017) 99 Crafting (2017) 99 Smithing (2017) 99 Thieving (2017) 99 invention (2017) 99 Fishing (2018), 99 Divination (2018), 99 Agility (2018), MAXED (05/17/2018)[/hide] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jasignhagj Posted April 24, 2011 Share Posted April 24, 2011 Aaand this is why I'm happy I have a Motorola Droid. :thumbsup:Droids unite! Well, technically I have a Milestone, but it's the exact same phone. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Drazhor Posted April 25, 2011 Share Posted April 25, 2011 It's useless for them secretly tracking my iphone...most of my locations would be in the bar :3 But that is quite creepy, interesting to know it! Visit my blog! Click the madness for more madness! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Flodder450 Posted April 25, 2011 Share Posted April 25, 2011 1984 anyone? 99 Firemaking 30-5-2010 | 99 Fletching 13-7-2014 TET-AU member:6-10-2010 - 21-10-2011 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gandalf14141 Posted April 26, 2011 Share Posted April 26, 2011 This was actually on the Today Show I believe or something like that. Finally on here to update that I have officially quit! It's been fun.[hide=Signature]R.I.P Billy Mays and <3 My Friend C.D.S 7/8/09 <360,816th to 99 Fletching 03/07/09|220,309th Person to be Able to Kill Dusties | 10 Year Cape on 12/20/14[/hide] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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