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.

Unlock 30% Savings on Ad-Free Access Now!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month
RM9.73 only

Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters.

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month
RM8.63/month

Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters.

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.

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