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

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

  • Survey: 48 Percent of Worshippers Feel Less Safe Attending In-Person Services

    Almost half (48%) of those who attend religious services say they feel less safe attending in-person due to rising acts of violence at places of worship. In fact, 39% report these safety concerns have led them to change how often they attend in-person services, according to new research from Verkada conducted online by The Harris Poll among 1,123 U.S. adults who attend a religious service or event at least once a month. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • 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.

  • Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

    Connect ONE®

    Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.