FTC(Federal Trade commission) have warned Google Inc., Apple Inc. and their vendors that more must be done to ensure the privacy of children using their devices and services.
“Right now, it is almost impossible to figure out which apps collect data and what they do with it,” FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz said.
The report notes that mobile apps can capture a broad range of user information from a mobile device automatically, including the user’s precise geolocation, phone number, list of contacts, call logs, unique identifiers, and other information stored on the device.
The FTC enforces the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule. The Rule requires operators of online services, including interactive mobile apps, to provide notice and get parental consent prior to collecting information from children under 13.
Google could not immediately be reached for comment. Apple had no comment on the report.
