A non-profit organization concerned with user privacy is accusing Verizon's new "AppFlash" of installing spyware to monitor apps on your devices.
The Android Authority reported that the Electronic Frontier Foundation has called Verizon's upcoming AppFlash app launcher and web search utility a security and privacy concern.
The EFF pointed out that the company is planning to install a software across all its customers' devices to monitor what apps they have downloaded.
The blunt accusation came on the heels of a much-debated repeal of online privacy protection.
The AppFlash "is just the latest display of wireless carriers' stunning willingness to compromise the security and privacy of their customers by installing spyware on end devices," the EFF said.
The EFF added that the information Verizon would be gathering will be used for targeted advertising on third party websites.
Android Authority, however, suggested that customers should not be worried about it.
Based on Verizon's private policy, it can reportedly collect information including, your mobile number, device identifiers, device type, operating system, and information about the AppFlash features and services you use and your interactions with them. It can also access information about the list of apps you have on your device, and more.
Furthermore, Android Authority also said that the information might be shared within the Verizon family of companies for advertising purposes.
However, the policy says "You can control whether AppFlash collects location and contact information about your device using settings available on your device." There is also an option to opt out from targeted advertising
Engadget, meanwhile, reported that in response to the accusation, Verizon said that it would need some of this data to make on-demand services work such as telling customers the local movie times and calling an Uber.
However, as the EFF pointed out, a large network of Android devices having a common app could make them more prone to hackers probing for security loopholes.