Those who use Candy Crush and Tinder, be careful, hackers are keeping an eye on you.

Last updated:15 January 2025, 12:21 IST

Some of the most used mobile apps, including Candy Crush and Tinder, are reportedly collecting sensitive location data of users without their knowledge. Know complete details here

New Delhi. If you play Candy Crush or spend a lot of time on Tinder app, then you must read this news. According to a report by 404 Media, some of the most used mobile apps including Candy Crush and Tinder are reportedly collecting sensitive location data of users without their knowledge. This threat is equally for both Android and iOS. According to the report, these apps can collect data through advertising ecosystem. This may raise serious concerns regarding user privacy.

It is believed that this data has reached location data broker Gravy Analytics, whose subsidiary Ventel has previously sold such information to the American Law Enforcement Agency.

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How to collect data?
The report reveals that data collection is done through a real-time bidding (RTB) system, where companies bid to show advertisements within the app. When these ads run, data brokers like Gravy Analytics are reportedly able to intercept and collect users’ location data even without the direct involvement of app developers. The app creators themselves do not control this process. This means that users remain unaware that their location is being monitored.

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Security experts, including Jack Edwards of cybersecurity firm Silent Push, are concerned about the scale of this data harvesting. According to the report, Edwards said this is the first time the public has solid evidence showing that some data brokers are extracting user information from the ad bid stream rather than from code embedded in the app.

How should Android phone and iPhone users keep their data safe?
Experts suggest that smartphone users be careful while giving location permissions to apps and check app privacy policies more carefully. Android users are advised not to grant location and camera access to apps that can function without it. iPhone users can choose “Ask apps not to track” after installing an app to limit tracking and data collection.