In a recent tweet, iOS developers and cybersecurity researchers, Mysk, have issued a warning to iPhone users running iOS 17 that their privacy settings may have changed without their permission. According to Mysk, upgrading to iOS 17 can reactivate the Significant Locations and iPhone Analytics features, even if they were previously turned off. Significant Locations tracks users’ recent whereabouts and is end-to-end encrypted, but Mysk cautions that this data can still be potentially abused. iPhone Analytics provides Apple with device performance statistics and usage information. While Apple is currently investigating the issue, Mysk advises iOS 17 users to disable both features in the Privacy & Security section of their iPhone Settings.
It is unclear what is causing this issue, but the majority of iOS 17 users are reportedly unaffected. However, to ensure their privacy, Mysk recommends disabling both Significant Locations and iPhone Analytics in the iPhone Settings until a patch is available. Despite iPhones being considered highly secure, this incident highlights the concern that privacy protections can be turned off due to development mishaps. Taking personal safety seriously, users are encouraged to explore TechRadar’s list of the best iPhone VPNs for 2023 to enhance their online security.
This news article reveals that upgrading to iOS 17 on the iPhone may inadvertently reactivate the Significant Locations and iPhone Analytics features even if they were previously turned off. Mysk, a pair of iOS developers and cybersecurity researchers, has warned users about this issue, emphasizing the potential abuse of the collected location data. While Significant Locations data is end-to-end encrypted, it still raises privacy concerns as it records detailed information about a user’s frequent visits. On the other hand, iPhone Analytics provides Apple with performance statistics and usage data. Although it is meant to help improve Apple’s products, security experts recommend turning it off. Apple is currently investigating the situation, and in the meantime, Mysk advises iOS 17 users to disable both features in the Privacy & Security settings. This incident highlights the importance of taking personal privacy seriously and considering additional measures such as using a VPN to enhance online security.