Meta and Yandex Accused of Covert Tracking of Android Users

Meta and Yandex Accused of Covert Tracking of Android Users

Recent findings from researchers at Radboud University and IMDEA Networks have uncovered troubling revelations about the practices of tech giants Meta and Yandex. The study indicates that both companies have been secretly monitoring Android users' online activities without their consent, leading to serious concerns regarding user privacy and data security.

According to the research, the apps developed by Meta, including popular platforms like Facebook and Instagram, along with Yandex services such as Yandex Maps, have been running in the background of Android devices. This covert tracking has been facilitated through scripts that bypass Android’s established security measures, allowing these companies to collect browser activity data even when users are browsing in incognito mode.

Dr. Gunes Acar, an assistant professor at Radboud University, highlighted the shock of discovering that these apps bridge the gap between web browsing and mobile app activities—two domains users typically consider separate. "That’s very shocking," he commented, underscoring the serious implications such tracking has for user privacy.

Narseo Vallina-Rodriguez, an associate professor at IMDEA Networks, pointed out the alarming nature of this practice. He explained that it renders many of the privacy controls that users trust in modern browsers and mobile operating systems ineffective. Google, the owner of Android, confirmed the findings, stating that Meta and Yandex had exploited the Android system in ways that infringe upon its security and privacy standards.

In response to these allegations, Meta has been quick to initiate an investigation. A spokesperson from the company indicated they are currently in discussions with Google to clarify potential miscommunications regarding privacy policy applications. They have temporarily halted the tracking feature while these discussions are ongoing.

Yandex has categorically denied these accusations, asserting that its practices align with data protection standards and that the alleged feature is aimed solely at improving app personalization, devoid of any sensitive data collection.

The research indicates that Meta has been engaged in this tracking behavior for approximately eight months, while Yandex's activities date back to 2017. In the case of Meta, the study revealed tracking was taking place across roughly 16,000 websites accessed from Europe, whereas Yandex engaged in similar actions on about 1,300 sites.

Google stated it has already implemented changes to curb such invasive techniques and has commenced its own investigation into the matter. Notably, major browsers like Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and DuckDuckGo have also been affected, with developers from Mozilla and DuckDuckGo taking steps to prevent further instances of covert tracking.

As this situation unfolds, it raises profound questions about the boundaries of user privacy and the transparency of data practices employed by leading tech companies. The implications for consumers and the broader tech landscape will undoubtedly be significant as more is revealed about these tracking activities and possible regulations come into play.