Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) has watered down a report by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) that it is planning to preinstall invasive spyware on all its Android phones. The EFF claimed that the “AppFlash,” spyware in question was capable of tracking downloaded apps while using the information for targeted advertising.
Other claims stated that the AppFlash’s privacy policy allowed the collection of data the likes of a person’s mobile number and their usage of the app. The news massive annoyance to subscribers of Android devices but the carrier was quick to explain its presence.
AppFlash spyware is only a test run for one type of Android device: Verizon explains
EFF notes, “With this spyware, Verizon will have the capacity to market or sell ads to you over the Internet based on things like which bank you use and whether you’ve downloaded a fertility application.”
The preloading of the new search tool on Android mobile phones was expected to have begun earlier according to Big Red. This would have been at the expense of client protection. However, Verizon has explained its position regarding the spyware.
The company refutes EFF’s claims citing that the spyware is only a test run for one particular Android device, which is the LG K20 V. It also says that users have the option of opting out of it. Verizon had a hard time trying to do heavy damage control as a result of the backlash.
But even then the AppFlash data cannot be erased or deleted completely
Gizmodo reports that Verizon was quick to clear the anger with an explanation that user can opt out. However, there is another concern. While there is a provision of ignoring the application, it does not get completely erased from the client’s device once it is preloaded and after opting out. The only solution is to root the gadget.
Nevertheless, given all the controversy, it remains to be seen what direction Verizon will take in regards to the spyware. In the meantime, Verizon’s stock was trading at $49.31 witnessing an increase of $0.13 or 0.26%.