With the iPad 3 already generating a huge media buzz, this is would not be a good time for Apple to see customers reconsider their purchase plans due to concerns about data privacy on mobile devices. So the smartphone and tablet pioneer wasted no time setting up a meeting with Senator Charles Schumer after the New York Democrat asked the Federal Trade Commission to investigate reports that some smartphone apps access and store data and photos without the user’s knowledge.
Google will also meet with Senator Schumer, who told the New York Times that the two companies “were friendly and open to the idea that this ought to be changed.” There has been somewhat less publicity about privacy concerns related to Android apps than iOS apps, but the popular online journal Path is reportedly uploading users’ address books from both iOS and Android devices. Google has also come under fire for quietly keeping track of the web sites visited by users of Safari, the web browser that comes preloaded on Apple’s mobile devices.
The media focus on privacy is music to the ears of companies who deliver security solutions to consumers and enterprises. Amidst all the criticism of apps that compromise privacy, apps that work to increase privacy see a marketing opportunity. CellTrust, a developer of mobile security apps, explained their solutions to RCR Wireless at last week’s Mobile World Congress.
So how vulnerable are your mobile phone calls and text messages? Gemalto is a leader in the digital security business, and the company offers this succinct explanation of security on its website:
“Text messages and voice are encrypted while in the air. Mobile operator managed wireless networks are secure and maintained by IT professionals, and the carriers put very strict controls in place to prevent individuals from misusing network technology. It is extremely unlikely an individual text message would be read, and it would take high level system administrator access to do it. But since U.S. law requires that all telecommunications carriers and equipment providers enable government law enforcement agencies to conduct lawful surveillance when needed, however, the capability clearly exists.”
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