Apple Tells App Developers to Disclose or Remove Screen Recording Code

Apple Tells App Developers to Disclose or Remove Screen Recording Code

Apple is telling app developers to either remove or properly disclose to users their use of code that allows them to record the way a user interacts with their iPhone apps—or face removal from the app store.

  • By Jessica Davis
  • Feb 11, 2019

Apple is telling app developers to either remove or properly disclose to users their use of code that allows them to record the way a user interacts with their iPhone apps—or face removal from the app store, TechCrunch reports.

The news follows a TechCrunch investigation that found major companies were using a third-party analytics tool to record users’ every tap and swipe within the app. They found that none of the apps they tested asked permission from users and none of the companies disclosed in their privacy policies that a user’s app activity would be recorded.

Sensitive data is supposed to be masked, but TC reports that data like passport information and credit card numbers was leaking.

Glassbox is a cross-platform analytics tool specializing in session replay technology. It lets companies integrate its screen recording tech into their apps to replay the way a user interacts with the app, but Glassbox “doesn’t enforce its customers” to disclose in their privacy policies that they use the screen recording tool.

However, Apple specifically bans apps that covertly collect user data without permission.

In an email, an Apple spokesperson said, “Protecting user privacy is paramount in the Apple ecosystem. Our App Store Review Guidelines require that apps request explicit user consent and provide a clear visual indication when recording, logging, or otherwise making a record of user activity.”

“We have notified the developers that are in violation of these strict privacy terms and guidelines, and will take immediate action if necessary,” the spokesperson said.

TechCrunch heard from multiple app developers who had been notified by Apple that their apps were breaking Apple’s app store guidelines.

At least one app developer was told by Apple to remove code that recorded activity in the app, via an email that said, “Your app uses analytics software to collect and send user or device data to a third party without the user’s consent. Apps must request explicit user consent and provide a clear visual indication when recording, logging, or otherwise making a record of user activity.”

The developer was given less than a day to remove the code and resubmit their app or else face removal from the app store, according to the email.

Glassbox can also be used by Android app developers, but Google has not commented on whether it would also ban the screen recording code.

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

Featured

  • Ransomware Attacks Rise for the First Time in Six Months

    Ransomware attacks have risen for the first time in six months, increasing by 28% month-on-month to 421 attacks. While overall attack volume remained below 500, the uptick may signal a renewed escalation heading into the year’s most active period for cyber criminals. Read Now

  • Report: 47 Percent of Security Service Providers Are Not Yet Using AI or Automation Tools

    Trackforce, a provider of security workforce management platforms, today announced the launch of its 2025 Physical Security Operations Benchmark Report, an industry-first study that benchmarks both private security service providers and corporate security teams side by side. Based on a survey of over 300 security professionals across the globe, the report provides a comprehensive look at the state of physical security operations. Read Now

    • Guard Services

  • Identity Governance at the Crossroads of Complexity and Scale

    Modern enterprises are grappling with an increasing number of identities, both human and machine, across an ever-growing number of systems. They must also deal with increased operational demands, including faster onboarding, more scalable models, and tighter security enforcement. Navigating these ever-growing challenges with speed and accuracy requires a new approach to identity governance that is built for the future enterprise. Read Now

  • Eagle Eye Networks Launches AI Camera Gun Detection

    Eagle Eye Networks, a provider of cloud video surveillance, recently introduced Eagle Eye Gun Detection, a new layer of protection for schools and businesses that works with existing security cameras and infrastructure. Eagle Eye Networks is the first to build gun detection into its platform. Read Now

  • Report: AI is Supercharging Old-School Cybercriminal Tactics

    AI isn’t just transforming how we work. It’s reshaping how cybercriminals attack, with threat actors exploiting AI to mass produce malicious code loaders, steal browser credentials and accelerate cloud attacks, according to a new report from Elastic. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.