The new update for iOS 13 allows users to hide their locations from third-party apps. (Image via MacRumors)

Privacy Talk: How to keep your locations on the iPhone secret?

Alfonsus Adi Putra
Business & Industry
Electronic Device
Dec 22, 2019
2714
On 19 September, Apple released an OS update for iOS 13 globally. One of the most important aspects looking for in the update was security. In the update, the Cupertino-based tech firm released an app that tells the users which application able to track users’ locations together with the update.

The update was nothing new since Apple already announce such an update in WWDC 2019.

Apple told that without the users realize, applications such as Google Maps or Uber might be tracking their locations. With the update, Apple notifies the users which applications are tracking their locations.

Not only location service but also some people might not notice it but their Bluetooth service also gives their locations away, through Bluetooth beacons on storefronts and in other public venues.

While it seems new, Apple actually had allowed its users to “manually” check the apps lurking in the background, tracking their locations. The difference is now, it tracks them automatically and notifies the users. Some people were baffled when they know these applications were tracking them all along.

Not only locations, but Apple also notifies the users about apps that run voice over protocol (VoIP) despite not being accessed. To prevent any privacy breach, the new update gave the users the privilege to authorize VoIP; it won’t be activated on its own.

How to activate it? Open “Settings”, choose “Privacy”, select “Location Services”, manage the apps in the list, and choose “while using,” “never,” “ask next time” or “always” use your location.

Meanwhile, to activate the setting to unauthorized Bluetooth location tracking, open “Settings”, open “Privacy”, then choose “Bluetooth”, and turn the settings on or off for the apps on the list.

As a friendly reminder, the Apple users need to be mindful of the tracking. Some applications might need to know your location to function. So, you might want to consider turning it to “while using” option.

Source: https://bit.ly/2PMfzMT

Business , Technology , Gadget , Telecommunication , Privacy , U.S , Apple , iOS