New Delhi: Following the controversy surrounding the Sanchar Saathi app, which raised privacy concerns regarding mobile number portability and user data, the Indian government is reportedly reviewing a proposal that could require smartphone manufacturers to enable always-on satellite location tracking on devices sold in India. This has reignited debates about user privacy, surveillance, and wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital security.
What Is A-GPS Surveillance?
A-GPS (Assisted Global Positioning System) is an enhanced form of GPS used in smartphones and other devices:
- How It Works:
- Traditional GPS uses satellites to determine a device’s location.
- A-GPS improves speed and accuracy by combining satellite signals with data from cell towers and Wi-Fi networks.
- This allows devices to pinpoint locations quickly, even in dense urban areas or indoors.
- Surveillance Implications:
- If A-GPS is always active, the government or authorized agencies could track users’ real-time locations continuously.
- Unlike apps that request location permissions individually, always-on A-GPS tracking cannot easily be turned off by users, potentially raising privacy risks.
Why Smartphone Users in india Should Be Concerned
Constant Location Tracking:
Devices could transmit location data even when users are not using any GPS-based app, leading to potential misuse or leaks.
Data Privacy Risks:
Centralized storage of location data increases the risk of data breaches, unauthorized access, or government overreach.
Impact on App Permissions:
Users may lose control over which apps access location data, affecting personal privacy and security.
Precedents:
The Sanchar Saathi controversy highlighted how government-linked apps can collect sensitive user data, often without full transparency.
Experts worry that mandatory always-on A-GPS could extend such concerns to all smartphones in India.
Current Status
- The proposal is reportedly under review, and no formal mandate has been issued yet.
- Industry sources suggest that smartphone manufacturers could face regulatory requirements to embed always-on location capabilities in devices sold in India.
What Users Can Do (for Now)
Check Location Settings:
Disable GPS or location sharing when not in use (for devices currently not mandated with always-on tracking).
Review App Permissions:
Limit apps that can access location data and review permissions periodically.
Use Privacy Features:
Enable privacy-focused modes or use apps that provide temporary location sharing instead of continuous tracking.
Stay Informed:
Monitor official notifications from the Ministry of Electronics & IT and telecom authorities about new mandates.
Conclusion
The indian government’s proposed always-on A-GPS requirement could significantly change how smartphones operate in the country, giving authorities continuous access to users’ locations. While intended for security and surveillance purposes, it raises critical privacy and civil liberties concerns. Users should stay alert and understand how such changes could affect their digital footprint and personal privacy.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk..jpg)
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