Mobile Network Operators Set Guidelines for App Privacy

Amid growing concerns over the privacy policies of mobile phone apps, the GSMA has published a set of guidelines that aims to give users more transparency, choice and control over how apps use their personal information. The guidelines outline how consumers' privacy should be protected when they are using mobile applications and services that access, use or collect personal information.

European mobile phone operators including Orange, Vodafone and Deutsche Telekom have said they will implement the guidelines, but with many apps being developed independently of the big players, digital rights organizations have questioned how valuable a voluntary code of conduct really is. Anne Bouverot, GSMA‘s Director General, admitted that there are significant privacy concerns over what apps do with users' information. "The privacy guidelines which are being implemented now are an important first step, but to effect real change, there needs to be close collaboration between the mobile industry, Internet industry, civil society and regulators," said Bouverot.