| Well now... That's a whole term paper that someone would normally be paid to write... Methods like encrypting files, creating proper storage segmentation/isolation for each individual app, ending the process of adding "bloatware" to devices, allowing for concrete disabling of cameras and microphone feature access to all apps (and also ensuring that app makers don't break app functionality when those features are disabled), eliminating in-app purchasing, ensuring that app stores clearly define app pricing and app maker credibility. Those things are just some of the first steps that need to be taken. Educating users is not involved in those steps. The way apps are installed and operated these days is far more confusing than making changes in order to protect their privacy as a default setting. TikTok and Facebook don't need access to cameras and phones when the apps aren't actively triggered by a user to record something... Somehow the apps require the permissions to be enabled entirely while the apps is being used. Every company should be required to comprehensively report on what data they track and be bound to responsibility to uphold that to a government watchdog with extreme punishment for mis-use. We also have to understand that when we speak about devices, we're not just talking about phones, we're increasingly talking about cars, thermostats, home security systems, TVs and many other consumer bought devices that give companies an infinite measure of methods on which they can wire tap consumers, and then sell that data, or even later use towards more harmful purposes like corporate espionage and extortion. Microphones and cameras were found recently to be hidden in Televisions when consumers had no idea they were, as an example of how far info overreach has gone. I'd recommend looking deeply into the integration and use of LIDAR on phones... Most people don't even know that/if it is a feature on their phone and on certain cars... It can be leveraged in many deeply invasive ways on individual device users if it is accessed by social media companies, or even worse if a data breach occurs. First, They (The FTC) should hire proper consultants to properly present the issues involved (Both cynics and optimists), and not just lean on basic understanding, there are a wide range of devices and features, combined with tons of different apps and use cases for them. Resolution is not a simple issue that can be summarized within a few posts online. |