Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed his concerns regarding proposed regulations that could affect certain features like the App Tracking Transparency that signal when a website or app collects its users' data.
Tim Cook Gives Keynote Speech Regarding the Importance of Privacy
Cook recently delivered a keynote speech in Washington D.C. during the Global Privacy Summit. The conference focused on privacy and data protection internationally and was hosted by the International Association of Privacy Professionals.
The Apple CEO reflected on the ongoing commitment by Apple when it comes to privacy, reiterating describing it as a "fundamental human right." He stated that the fight for privacy protection is one of the most critical battles of today.
Apple CEO Acknowledges the Importance of Technology
Cook detailed that the company is proud to stand alongside others for privacy rights to be advanced globally. The CEO acknowledged the use of technology in making this possible but also stated that, in its essence, technology is not inherently good nor inherently bad, saying it depends on how it is used.
According to the story by MacRumors, technology is merely a mirror that reflects the ambitions of those using it, those who build it, and the people that regulate its usage. With that, a highlight was given to the company's privacy features like the App Tracking Transparency.
Cook Expresses Concerns About How Proposed Regulations Could Affect User Privacy
Cook then expressed his concerns regarding how proposed regulations could expose user privacy by diminishing the features. He then expressed that this could result in users being exposed to security risks.
An example of these regulations includes the proposed Digital Markets Act in the European Union, which would have the company allow sideloading apps outside of the App Store to load on the iPhone.
The Dangers of Allowing Sideloading Apps
As described by Cook, policymakers are now moving towards forcing the company to allow apps on iPhones to go around the App Store process. This process is known as sideloading, and the CEO described the dangers this could cause users.
Cook noted that should sideloading be allowed, "data-hungry companies would be able to avoid our privacy rules," potentially resulting in users being racked against their will. As per the Apple CEO, Sideloading would also put users at risk of bad actors circumventing the company's security protections.
Read Also: FTC Chair Wants to Enforce Consumer Privacy Protections and Reassess Rules About Data Collection
Sideloading Could Put iPhone Users at More Risks as Per the CEO of Apple
The CEO of Apple argues that allowing sideloading would give bad actors direct contact with their users, thus placing them at more risk. The CEO, however, made it clear that Apple does not oppose regulations but instead believes in those that do not directly undermine privacy protection.
Cook let out a warning saying if they are forced to allow unvetted apps to function on the iPhone, this could result in serious consequences as detailed in a report by CNBC.
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Written by Urian B.
