Your smartphone knows where you’ve been and where you are. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always keep that information to itself. The National Security Agency (NSA) has issued a critical warning for smartphone users (view NSA's full advisory here) to take action to stop secretive location tracking now. Here’s what you need to know and do to protect your privacy.
The latest threat: Data breaches and location tracking
Recent leaks, such as the hack of location aggregator Gravy Analytics, have exposed sensitive location data for millions of users. This data, often harvested from popular apps, reveals precise movements and personal patterns. Alarmingly, the exposed information includes visits to sensitive locations like military bases, healthcare facilities, and places of worship.
This data doesn’t come directly from your phone but from apps through a process called real-time bidding (RTB). According to the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), RTB exposes your data to thousands of advertisers and brokers, fueling surveillance and posing national security risks.
Apps that could be compromised
Lists of apps accused of tracking user locations include:
- Dating apps like Tinder and Grindr
- Games like Candy Crush and Subway Surfers
- Period trackers and fitness apps
- Popular tools like Microsoft 365 and Flightradar24
- Religious and VPN apps
While some of these apps may seem harmless, they often request unnecessary permissions, making them potential risks to your privacy.
NSA’s recommendations for location privacy
The NSA has outlined steps you can take to reduce the risks associated with location tracking:
1. Restrict app permissions:
Grant apps only the permissions they absolutely need. For location services, set permissions to “While Using the App” or disable them altogether
2. Disable advertising tracking:
- For iPhone users: Turn off the “Allow Apps to Track” setting under Privacy & Security.
- For Android users: Regularly reset or delete your Advertising ID in device settings.
3. Check app settings regularly:
Review which apps have access to your location and other sensitive data, and revoke permissions that seem unnecessary.
4. Disable location services when not needed:
For sensitive users, consider turning off cellular and Wi-Fi radios and disabling location services entirely when not in use.
The bigger picture
Beyond smartphones, other devices like smartwatches, fitness trackers, and IoT devices also pose location tracking risks. These devices sync data to the cloud, potentially exposing sensitive information if accounts are compromised.
How Spy-Fy can help
At Spy-Fy, we understand the growing concerns about privacy and location tracking. Our range of privacy hardware, such as privacy iPhone cases with camera covers, faraday bags for laptop and signal-blocking pouches, can help you maintain control over your personal information. By using our solutions alongside the NSA’s recommendations, you can protect yourself from unwanted surveillance.
Take control of your privacy today
Your privacy is in your hands. Regularly monitor your device settings, restrict app permissions, and consider using privacy-focused tools like those offered by Spy-Fy to safeguard your data. Small changes can make a big difference in ensuring your personal information remains just that—personal.
