Personal Data Collection: Meta, Apple, Google, and Microsoft Accused

According to reports, Meta, Apple, Google, and Microsoft are frequently accused of collecting and selling personal data from their users. According to a new study by Surfshark, global government requests for such personal user data are increasing. The focus of this study is on the period from 2013 to 2021, with a year-on-year increase of 38% in 2020 being the most prominent, followed by a 25% increase in 2021.

Research: The government is most interested in Meta’s user data

In today’s digital era, personal data is an essential part of our lives. A report by Surfshark reveals that tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Meta are accused of collecting and selling personal user data. The Surfshark study further discloses that global government requests for such personal data are on the rise, with a 38% YoY increase in 2020 and a 25% YoY increase in 2021.

The Rise in Government Requests for Personal Data

According to the Surfshark study, global government requests for personal data have increased significantly since 2013. In 2020, the increase stood at 38%, which is the highest compared to other years. In 2021, the increase rate was 25% YoY. These figures suggest that there is an ongoing trend among governments worldwide to request more personal data from tech companies.

Tech Giants Accused of Collecting and Selling Personal Data

Tech giants Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Meta have been frequently accused of collecting and selling personal data from their users. While these companies claim to protect user privacy, various reports suggest otherwise. For example, Google was found to have collected personal data from the Safari browser without users’ consent. Likewise, Apple’s iCloud platform and Meta’s WhatsApp were also found to contain security vulnerabilities that allowed unauthorized access to users’ data.

The Impact of Personal Data Collection on Users

Personal data collection can have a significant impact on users’ privacy, security, and personal information. Users have the right to know about the personal data that companies collect and how they use it. However, the lack of transparency and complexity of privacy policies can make it challenging for users to understand these practices. In addition, the rise in government requests for personal data raises concerns about privacy violations and government surveillance.

Measures to Protect Personal Data

The Surfshark report recommends several measures that users can take to protect their personal data. One such measure is to use a VPN that encrypts data and hides user identity. Another is to limit personal data sharing by only providing necessary information to third-party services. Users should also enable two-factor authentication and regularly update their device’s security software to protect against cyber threats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Surfshark study highlights the increase in government requests for personal data and tech giants’ role in collecting and selling such information. The rise in personal data collection and requests raises concerns about privacy violations and government surveillance. As users, we should take measures to protect our personal data and take precautions against potential cyber threats.

FAQs

1. What personal data do tech giants collect?
Tech giants collect various types of data, including search history, location data, browsing habits, and social media activity.
2. How can users protect their personal data from tech giants?
Users can protect their personal data by using a VPN, limiting data sharing, enabling two-factor authentication, and keeping device security software updated.
3. Why do governments request personal data from tech companies?
Governments request personal data for various reasons, including national security, law enforcement, and criminal investigations.