Data collection: X-Mode must be removed from apps
Apple and Google have informed developers that they need to remove the X-Mode Social data collection tool from their apps. Those who do not follow the guidelines simply risk being banned from the App Store and Play Store.
According to Wall Street Journal, Google is giving developers seven days to remove X-Mode Social from their apps. Those who wish can request an extension of up to 30 days. At Apple, the deadline for removing the data collection tool is two weeks.
Last month, Vice reported that X-Mode collects data on phones using its software. The American company resold the data, in particular to service providers working for the American government. These providers then transferred the information to the US military.
An investigation has been opened to find out more about the resale of the data. This is where Apple and Google come in to ban X-Mode Social in apps. In the case of the App Store, Apple found 100 apps created by 30 developers that rely on the tracker.
This withdrawal of X-Mode Social in applications imposed by Apple and Google will improve the respect for the privacy of users. For its part, X-Mode defends itself against its practices. The company says it collects data similar to that of other vendors.
