Family Tracking and Data Privacy: How Far We’ve Come and What’s Next

In the 15 years since the debut of iPhone, the world of data privacy and data safety for family tracking has changed. When Apple launched the first version of iPhone in 2007. When Apple launched the first iPhone in 2007, apps had almost unrestricted access to personal data on your device, including location and other installed apps, without any notification. This approach began to shift with increasing awareness and reports of policy violations, leading to the introduction of permissions and safeguards.

2007-2010: The Early Days of Smartphones

These were the formative years of smartphones when people were just beginning to explore the possibilities of mobile apps. In 2008, Apple launched the first App Store, introducing location services with on/off capabilities, setting the stage for more controlled access to user data. This was particularly important for family tracking applications, which rely heavily on accurate and secure location data.

2012: A Turning Point for Data Privacy

In 2012, with the release of iOS 6, Apple required apps to obtain explicit permission to access sensitive data like contacts, calendars, reminders, and photos, in addition to location data. This was a pivotal moment in the journey toward enhanced privacy, especially for family tracking apps that handle personal information. A year later, iOS 7 expanded this requirement to include microphone and camera access, further protecting users and their families.

It is not completely possible to prevent tracking and sharing of your data with others. But you can definitely take certain steps to minimize the data collection

Tips to improve your mobile privacy

Disable personalized ad tracking

Both Android and iOS allow you to opt out of personalized ad tracking. By disabling this feature, you make it more challenging for apps and marketers to identify your device, resulting in fewer personalized ads and greater privacy. This is especially crucial for family tracking apps, where maintaining privacy is of utmost importance.

Downloading the apps

Before downloading any app check whether you actually need it or you are doing just for a task that can be done online.  Using a browser instead of downloading an unnecessary app can reduce potential privacy risks and simplify device management, keeping your family’s data safer.

Pay attention to permissions

Whenever you install the app the first thing to be checked the permissions it asks for. Are these permissions related to the functionality of the app or is there anything strange about it. Deny the permissions that seem strange. You can always enable these permissions later ensuring your family tracking apps are only accessing what’s essential.

Monitor Background Usage

Many apps continue to function in the background, potentially sharing or transferring information without your knowledge. Regularly check whether your apps genuinely need to run in the background, and disable this feature for apps where it’s unnecessary, ensuring your family’s data remains protected.   This is particularly important for family tracking apps, which should only operate when needed.

Delete apps you don’t use

Every few days scroll through the apps that you don’t use. Delete those unwanted or unnecessary apps that you no longer require. Keeping your device streamlined is essential for the smooth operation of family tracking apps.

Mobile apps aren’t the only source that can cause the privacy issues. Any web browsing you do on your computer will be linked to your account.

The Evolution of Control Over Data Privacy

In the 15 years since the launch of major mobile operating systems, phone owners have gained significantly more control over what data their apps can access. Today, users can block obvious red flags like microphone or video access and control which photos an app might access, giving them greater peace of mind when tracking their family’s safety.

By staying informed and proactive, you can enhance your mobile privacy, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for your family.