Apple has long extolled the virtues of its iOS platform, claiming that it is safe, secure, and more importantly how they value the privacy of their users, so much so that according to reports, it seems that Apple is cracking down on apps that send location data to third-parties. Some of these apps have been removed, while some have gotten warnings.According to those that were reported to have violated Apple’s guidelines, the company has pointed to a specific section in the guidelines which are sections 5.1.1 and 5.1.2 which reads, “The app transmits user location data to third parties without explicit consent from the user and for unapproved purposes.”
Apple then goes on to state that if developers wish for their app to be allowed to return to the iTunes App Store, that they need to remove any code, frameworks, or SDKs that violate those guidelines. In addition it has been reported that Apple is cracking down on apps that use the user’s personal data without necessarily enhancing the user experience of the app.
“You may not use or transmit someone’s personal data without first obtaining their permission and providing access to information about how and where the data will be used. Data collected from apps may not be used or shared with third parties for purposes unrelated to improving the user experience or software/hardware performance connected to the app’s functionality.”