Report on apps that track and sell your location data


The New York Times has a report looking at mobile location tracking. The investigation points out that tracking goes beyond just the app as it's common app developers sell location data to other firms.

The New York Times:

Of the 17 apps that The Times saw sending precise location data, just three on iOS and one on Android told users in a prompt during the permission process that the information could be used for advertising. Only one app, GasBuddy, which identifies nearby gas stations, indicated that data could also be shared to "analyze industry trends."

More typical was theScore, a sports app: When prompting users to grant access to their location, it said the data would help "recommend local teams and players that are relevant to you." The app passed precise coordinates to 16 advertising and location companies.

In short, you probably want to scrutinize apps privacy policies before granting it location data.