Samsung is currently navigating a wave of criticism stemming from allegations that certain budget-friendly Galaxy A and M smartphones are preloaded with unremovable spyware. This issue is particularly pertinent for users in the Middle East and North Africa, where privacy concerns are heightened.
While many Android manufacturers include third-party applications on their devices, often complicating the removal process, Samsung has generally favored its own suite of first-party applications. However, recent reports suggest that specific models of the Galaxy A and M series, sold in select regions, may come with a deeply embedded spyware application that raises significant privacy alarms.
The Lebanese digital rights organization SMEX has brought attention to a pre-installed application known as AppCloud, which is found on some Galaxy A and M devices distributed in countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt.
A Bloatware App That May Be Used for Surveillance
AppCloud, developed by ironSource—a company with Israeli ties that is now part of the U.S. firm Unity—has been flagged for its data collection practices. According to findings from SMEX and various security researchers, AppCloud gathers sensitive information from users, including device specifications, app usage statistics, IP addresses, geographical locations, and even biometric data. Alarmingly, this data collection occurs without explicit user consent, as the app is activated during the initial device setup without informing users of its operations.
Moreover, the challenges associated with uninstalling AppCloud are considerable. The application is intricately woven into Samsung’s ecosystem, making removal a complex task. Even if users manage to uninstall it, the app reportedly reinstalls itself after a device reset. There are no options available for opting out, nor is there a clear policy outlining the app’s purpose or how it utilizes collected data.
“The forced installation of AppCloud undermines the privacy and security rights of users in the MENA region and beyond. The lack of transparency and control over personal data is particularly alarming given Samsung’s significant market share in the region,” SMEX stated.
Concerns have been raised regarding the potential for AppCloud to facilitate targeted cyberattacks and surveillance, especially in politically sensitive areas. In its report, SMEX has called for increased transparency from Samsung and has requested a meeting to discuss these pressing issues. As of now, Samsung has not issued an official response.
It is worth noting that independent research validating SMEX’s claims about AppCloud’s detrimental impact on user privacy and security is currently lacking. The context of broader political tensions, particularly given ironSource’s connections to Israel, may also influence the narrative surrounding this controversy.
As the situation unfolds, users are left in a state of uncertainty, awaiting clarity from Samsung regarding the implications of this pre-installed application.
Do you believe bloatware like this poses a real threat to Samsung Galaxy users? Should there be stronger calls for transparency and user control? Share your thoughts in the comments.
You Can’t Delete This Samsung App—And It Might Be Spying on You
Samsung is currently navigating a wave of criticism stemming from allegations that certain budget-friendly Galaxy A and M smartphones are preloaded with unremovable spyware. This issue is particularly pertinent for users in the Middle East and North Africa, where privacy concerns are heightened.
While many Android manufacturers include third-party applications on their devices, often complicating the removal process, Samsung has generally favored its own suite of first-party applications. However, recent reports suggest that specific models of the Galaxy A and M series, sold in select regions, may come with a deeply embedded spyware application that raises significant privacy alarms.
The Lebanese digital rights organization SMEX has brought attention to a pre-installed application known as AppCloud, which is found on some Galaxy A and M devices distributed in countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt.
A Bloatware App That May Be Used for Surveillance
AppCloud, developed by ironSource—a company with Israeli ties that is now part of the U.S. firm Unity—has been flagged for its data collection practices. According to findings from SMEX and various security researchers, AppCloud gathers sensitive information from users, including device specifications, app usage statistics, IP addresses, geographical locations, and even biometric data. Alarmingly, this data collection occurs without explicit user consent, as the app is activated during the initial device setup without informing users of its operations.
Moreover, the challenges associated with uninstalling AppCloud are considerable. The application is intricately woven into Samsung’s ecosystem, making removal a complex task. Even if users manage to uninstall it, the app reportedly reinstalls itself after a device reset. There are no options available for opting out, nor is there a clear policy outlining the app’s purpose or how it utilizes collected data.
Concerns have been raised regarding the potential for AppCloud to facilitate targeted cyberattacks and surveillance, especially in politically sensitive areas. In its report, SMEX has called for increased transparency from Samsung and has requested a meeting to discuss these pressing issues. As of now, Samsung has not issued an official response.
It is worth noting that independent research validating SMEX’s claims about AppCloud’s detrimental impact on user privacy and security is currently lacking. The context of broader political tensions, particularly given ironSource’s connections to Israel, may also influence the narrative surrounding this controversy.
As the situation unfolds, users are left in a state of uncertainty, awaiting clarity from Samsung regarding the implications of this pre-installed application.
Do you believe bloatware like this poses a real threat to Samsung Galaxy users? Should there be stronger calls for transparency and user control? Share your thoughts in the comments.