The FTC is cracking down on app developers who are using tactics that impede on user's privacy for the sake of advertisements. From what we have come to understand, the FTC asked 12 Android developers to stop using this tactic or face the consequences.
According to the report, the developers are using an ad software known as SilverPush, and this thing is scary. It is capable of listening to what is going on in order to push ads to users. Basically, the app can listen to your television to help give advertisers an idea of the shows you watch on a regular basis.
The FTC did not name the developers, but they were warned to remove the code from their apps. If not, it is possible they could face charges in the United States. Furthermore, they are required to let users know what their apps are up to before allowing them to go through with the installation.
We should also point out that the developers of SilverPush said their software is not yet available in the United States, so we're not sure if this means it is impossible for the codes situated in the 12 apps will not work.
"These apps were capable of listening in the background and collecting information about consumers without notifying them," said Jessica Rich, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection. "Companies should tell people what information is collected, how it is collected, and who it's shared with."
The FTC is working to crack down on this cross-tracking device software before things get out of hand. This software is dangerous and can do more harm than good. Any software that uses the microphone on a smartphone to listen in for information that will be used for advertising is bad. It's even worse when this software do it automatically.
We hope to learn more about SilverPush in the future in the future, and if other app developers are using it. We also hope the developers of this ad software stop what they are doing before the wrong person or persons get a hold of the technology.