Facebook’s irresponsibility over letting Cambridge Analytica blatantly collect and manipulate user information brings into light a lot of long-ignored questions. Prior to this breach, general conversational concern around the social networking giant’s data collection was often dubbed as conspiracy mongering. However, in the aftermath, things now look to change. At the forefront is the European Union.
Its General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Act is all set to replace the 1995 Data Protection Directive. The GDPR is built to address today’s data security concerns, as technology is far more pervasive than it was in the 90s. To that end, Apple’s also unveiled new privacy tools before the regulation comes into effect two months from now, on the 25th of May. Take a look below for the details.
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Before we get into the details, it’s important to understand that the tools Apple is providing are already available to its users – except for account deactivation. The latest move aims to consolidate them under one category and improve users’ ability to monitor and access data collection by Apple for the purposes of storage and methodology.
Apple will introduce the tools on the Apple ID login page, allowing users to deactivate/delete accounts, request a copy of all their data held by Apple or ask Cupertino to make corrections. Right now, it’s possible to carry out all of these save deactivation via filling out online forms or calling AppleCare.
This consolidation will cater to the GDPR’s more stringent data regulations. The act deals more severely with any violations. Depending on the violation, companies can be fined either €10 or €20 million if it’s greater than either 2% or 4% of their revenues. It also gives regulating bodies the authority to conduct periodic data audits or issue written warnings for the first cases of noncompliance.
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These measures from Apple follow CEO Tim Cook’s latest take on Facebook’s Cambridge Analytica scandal. According to Mr. Cook, while it will benefit Apple to monetize user data, the company is taking the moral high ground. While this sounds noble, we don’t expect the monetization restraint to continue in the future. After all, Apple itself is eager to replace revenue lost from decreasing iPhone sales. Thoughts? Let us know what you think in the comments section below and stay tuned. We’ll keep you updated on the latest.
