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2024 | OriginalPaper | Chapter

User Interaction Data in Apps: Comparing Policy Claims to Implementations

Authors : Feiyang Tang, Bjarte M. Østvold

Published in: Privacy and Identity Management. Sharing in a Digital World

Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland

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Abstract

The chapter delves into the privacy implications of user interaction data collection in mobile apps, challenging the effectiveness of anonymization techniques. It introduces an automated method to compare privacy policy claims with actual data collection practices in app code, aiming to enhance transparency and rebuild user trust. The study analyzes 100 popular apps, revealing significant gaps in transparency and detailing the extent of user interaction data collection. The chapter also presents a case study of four popular apps, highlighting the need for clearer and more detailed privacy policies. By addressing these issues, the research contributes to fostering a culture of transparency and accountability in the mobile app ecosystem.
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previous chapter Assuring GDPR Conformance Through Language-Based Compliance
next chapter Developing with Compliance in Mind: Addressing Data Protection Law, Cybersecurity Regulation, and AI Regulation During Software Development
Appendix
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Footnotes
2
The German Google Play Store was selected for its adherence to the GDPR, ensuring that the apps included in the study would have well-constructed privacy policies. https://​play.​google.​com/​store/​apps?​hl=​en_​US &​gl=​DE.
 
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Metadata
Title
User Interaction Data in Apps: Comparing Policy Claims to Implementations
Authors
Feiyang Tang
Bjarte M. Østvold
Copyright Year
2024
Book
Privacy and Identity Management. Sharing in a Digital World

Print ISBN: 978-3-031-57977-6

Electronic ISBN: 978-3-031-57978-3

Copyright Year: 2024

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-57978-3_5

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