Apple has been under investigation in France for almost two years due to its confidentiality function, APP Tracking Transparency (ATT), which allows iPhone users to decide whether their activity can be followed by advertising agents. According to a recent Reuters report, the investigation is about to end, and the verdict does not seem to be favorable for Apple. The French authorities could require the US company to deactivate this function on the territory of France and apply a fine.
On the one hand, App Tracking Transparency is an important step in protecting the private life of users. Apple claims that each person should have total control over his data and decide whether and with whom he shares them. This principle is fundamentally in a digitized society, where the risks related to the abusive use of personal data are increasing. However, this high level of confidentiality can conflict with the needs of justice and the application of the law.
Although the protection of private life is essential, we must recognize that the mobile phone can contain essential information in judicial investigations. Offenders use technology not only for communication, but also for organizing illegal activities. Therefore, there are situations in which access to these data could be justified, especially in an authorized computer search.
A balance is required between protecting confidentiality and ensuring that the law can be applied effectively. In some cases, limiting access to data under the pretext of protecting privacy can become an obstacle to justice. Of course, clear rules must be established to prevent abuses, but in situations where public safety is at stake, authorities should have access to relevant information, in compliance with legal procedures.
If Apple will be forced to disable the transparency app tracking appar in France, this precedent could influence other countries, where there are similar debates about the role of technology companies in protecting the confidentiality versus cooperation with the authorities. It remains to be seen how things will evolve, but one thing is certain: in the digital age, the balance between privacy and security remains a complex challenge.
It is strange, however, for France to ask for this change, given that the European Union has imposed on Apple and Google strict rules in terms of GDPR. Let's not forget where the regulations regarding the protection of users came from.
