WASHINGTON, Dec. 12 (Reuters) – Apple (AAPL.O) says it is seeking a judge’s order to turn over information about its customers’ push notifications to law enforcement, bringing the iPhone maker’s policy in line with rival Google’s and allowing authorities to obtain app data about users. The hurdles that must be cleared have been raised.
The new policy was not officially announced, but was announced in the past few days. Law enforcement guidelines published by Apple. This follows revelations by Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden that officials had requested such data not only from Apple but also from Alphabet Inc.’s Google. (GOOGL.O) Create an operating system for Android phones.
Apps of all kinds rely on push notifications to notify smartphone users of incoming messages, breaking news, and other updates. These are the audible “sounds” or visual indicators that users receive when they receive an email or when a sports team wins a game. What users often do not realize is that almost all such notifications are sent through Google and his Apple servers.
In the letter, first revealed by Reuters last week, Wyden said the practice gives the companies unique insight into the traffic flowing to users from these apps, and that the two companies can “see how users use specific apps.” “We are in a unique position to facilitate government oversight of what is happening.”
Apple and Google both acknowledged receiving such requests. Apple added a section to its guidelines stating that such data can be obtained “via subpoena or larger legal process.” This text has now been updated to refer to more stringent warrant requirements.
Apple has not released an official statement. Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Wyden said in a statement that Apple is “doing the right thing by aligning with Google in seeking a court order to turn over data related to push notifications.”
Source: nypost.com
