Report: TikTok secretly collected device data in Android app in violation of Google policies


TikTok tracked the MAC (media access control) addresses – unique hardware identifiers assigned to a network interface – of users’ Android phones, possibly for advertising purposes, per the Journal story. TikTok stopped the practice in November 2019. — Bloomberg

LOS ANGELES: TikTok collected device-specific addresses of users’ smartphones via its Android app for at least 15 months over 2018-19, using a technique that Google had banned developers from using without user consent, according to a Wall Street Journal report.

TikTok tracked the MAC (media access control) addresses – unique hardware identifiers assigned to a network interface – of users’ Android phones, possibly for advertising purposes, per the Journal story. TikTok stopped the practice in November 2019. The popular video-sharing app is facing a potential ban in the US over national-security concerns, given its ownership by Chinese Internet giant ByteDance.

Subscribe to The Star Yearly Premium Plan for 30% off

Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Full access to Web and App.

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.39/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Others Also Read


All Headlines:

Want to listen to full audio?

Unlock unlimited access to enjoy personalise features on the TheStar.com.my

Already a member? Log In