The apps for the Paris Olympics are part of extensive data collection efforts. Surprisingly, even the official Paris 2024 Olympics app is involved in gathering user data and sharing it with advertisers. The intention behind these apps is often framed as a measure for enhanced security. The city of Paris has invested heavily in AI-driven video surveillance to monitor large crowds of spectators effectively.
A Deep Look into the Eavesdropping of Paris 2024 Olympic Apps
However, the primary beneficiaries of this data collection are the app developers. They have launched numerous platforms to help users stay updated on the Olympics. However, these apps also contribute to significant data collection practices. The official Paris 2024 Olympics app is no exception, actively participating in these broad eavesdropping activities.
The Paris 2024 Olympics app offers a range of features, including event schedules, breaking news, medal results, and insights into qualifiers and other aspects of the Games. With over 10 million downloads on both Google Play and the Apple App Store, it has become a go-to resource for Olympic enthusiasts.
However, it is noteworthy that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has acknowledged that the app collects personal data, creates user profiles, and shares this information with advertisers. This raises concerns, particularly as all visitors to the Paris Olympics will be required to download and use the app.
The Data is Collected For Improved user experience – However, It is Also Sent to Developers and Advertisers
To access the app’s features, users must grant permissions for location, phone, messages, and other data. This extensive data collection is used to target users with personalized ads. Popular apps like Bonjour RATP, TheFork, and Citymapper also gather multiple data points. They share this information with third parties, raising further privacy concerns. These practices suggest that app developers may be profiting from extensive data collection and monitoring of users.
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A major concern with some apps, particularly those related to the Paris 2024 Olympics, is their demand for precise location data as a core feature. For these apps to function properly, users must grant “Location” permission. This includes apps like the Paris 2024 Olympics, Paris 2024 Public Transport, and Paris 2024 Transport Accred.
Even apps that claim not to collect data can still request troubling permissions. According to CyberNews, several popular apps ask for access to external storage, contacts, calendars, and media files. The Paris 2024 Olympics app, for instance, requests access to precise locations, cameras, and audio recording. It also asks to read media files, modify audio settings, and use high-sampling rate sensors.
The Paris 2024 Olympics app, developed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), will share users’ web browsing history, email addresses, device information, and other personal identifiers. The info is sent to advertisers. Similarly, the Paris 2024 Public Transport app, created by a government agency, will share users’ names, emails, and app usage data. This data collection supports various purposes. This includes security, fraud prevention, functionality, advertising, and analytics. While some apps claim they do not collect personal data, CyberNews researchers have found that these apps often request highly intrusive permissions.
Conclusion – Be Careful When Sharing Data With Apps
Such extensive permission requests are cause for concern, and users should be cautious. Additionally, there are numerous fake apps and scams related to the Paris Olympics. Therefore, smartphone users must be very selective about the apps they install on their devices.
If you’re following the Olympic Games and are a user of the official app, be aware that your data is being collected for advertisers. For those who dislike eavesdropping, regardless of the intention, then the better thing to do is to not use such apps. If this does not matter to you, then you can simply ignore it and continue using the app for tracking your favorite games. You can read CyberNews’ full report here.
