Recently, a security researcher has revealed that the well-known Chinese smartphone manufacturer, OnePlus would be collecting all the private data of its users without their consent, and without offering alternatives or options to disable or prevent such transfer.
OMG! OnePlus Is Collecting User Data Without Permission
A security researcher has revealed that the Chinese company OnePlus would be collecting private data of its users without their consent, and without offering alternatives or options to disable or prevent such transfer.
This is how OnePlus collects data from its users
The Chinese smartphone manufacturer OnePlus has made a name for itself among the various handset manufacturers, because – for several years – it has offered devices with the specifications of a top of the range, but at a more affordable price. Thus, they have shone on the market their last two flagships: the OnePlus 3T and the OnePlus 5.
But, now, the firm faces a serious accusation. As detailed by the security engineer, Chris Moore, who has provided evidence that the Chinese smartphone manufacturer is collecting data from its users and without their consent.
Apparently, Moore, the security researcher has tracked OxygenOS traffic – the Android-based personalization layer with which the company’s handsets operate – discovering that its device was periodically connected to the “open.oneplus.net domain”, a top pointing domain to an Amazon server contracted by the manufacturer itself.
Hey @OnePlus_Support, it's none of your business when I turn my screen on/off or unlock my phone – how do I turn this off? /cc:@troyhunt pic.twitter.com/VihaIDI6wP
— Christopher Moore (@chrisdcmoore) January 13, 2017
In that research, the expert was able to verify that – among the data collected – the IMEI of the device, the telephone number, MAC addresses, names of Wi-Fi networks, when the screen was turned on and off, information about the applications (and how long they are in the foreground), among other parameters.
According to the sources consulted, this behavior would be a big problem for the privacy of the people, since it shares information that allows to identify the users. However, since the company has not yet made any statements on the matter, explaining this procedure.
So, what do you think about this? Simply share your views and thoughts in the comment section below.
