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Facebook partner admits to eavesdropping on conversations via phone mics for ad targeting

2024-09-06 20:11 by
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The recent disturbing revelation about smartphones tracking our online activities and also eavesdropping on our conversations raises significant concerns about privacy, consent, and the ethical implications of targeted advertising.

The report by 404 Media exposed how a technology called "active listening" enabled devices to monitor and record audio inputs through their microphone. A marketing firm, whose clients include industry giants like Google and Facebook, confirmed using such software to collect user data. This revelation shows that our personal conversations are no longer private, and our devices are silently witnessing our lives.

In fact, the technology goes beyond just the microphones on smartphones and includes other smart devices like TVs and speakers. Any device with voice recognition has the potential to be used for active listening, with or without the owner's knowledge or consent.

We've always been told that voice recognition is only active for a short period after wake words like "Alexa" and "Hey Google" are spoken. But if these devices are always listening, the constant eavesdropping would have far-reaching consequences for user privacy and consumer behaviors, which are significantly influenced by advertising.

Obtaining first-party data about potential buyers has become more valuable than ever, and the advertising industry can’t continue to grow and prosper without targeted advertising. As companies are backed further into corners, CMG’s Active Listening looks ever more enticing.

Read more -here-

 

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