South Korea fined TikTok and Apple over unlawful data collection and overseas transfers. Here’s what the decision reveals about tracking, Siri recordings, and the privacy settings you can review now.
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What Happened?
TikTok received the larger fine after regulators found that it tracked clicks, purchases, browsing activity, and device identifiers from 9.45 million users. Apple was fined for using Siri recordings and transcripts without clear permission.
The companies also failed to clearly explain what information was transferred overseas and why it was being shared.
This case shows how much personal information apps may collect during everyday use. Your data may also have been leaked through other services without you realizing it.
If you are unsure whether your information was leaked, automatic monitoring can help you spot problems earlier.
Futureproof monitors your data for leaks 24/7 and helps you reduce scam risks with simple, clear steps.
Whose Data Was Collected and What Did It Include?
TikTok collected behavioral data from 9.45 million active South Korean users through tracking tools placed on other websites and apps.
The data included clicks, purchases, shopping cart activity, searches, downloads, content views, inquiries, and device identifiers.
TikTok linked this information to user accounts. It then used the data to estimate interests for personalized advertising.
Apple collected Siri voice recordings and transcripts, which are written versions of spoken requests.
The public decision did not give a total number of affected Apple users.
The regulator said Apple transferred personal information to US affiliates without clearly explaining the data, purpose, or retention period.
The ruling did not say criminals stole this information in a cyberattack. Still, behavioral and voice data can reveal personal habits and interests.
Futureproof monitors your information for data leaks 24/7 and guides you with clear steps to keep it safer from scams.
Run a free checkHow TikTok Tracked Activity and Apple Used Siri Data
TikTok gave tracking tools to about 71,000 South Korean businesses for advertising and content analysis.
These tools recorded activity on participating websites and apps. They then sent the information to TikTok.
The regulator said TikTok did not clearly explain this collection when users created accounts.
It also treated the consent as mandatory, limiting users’ ability to make a free and informed choice.
TikTok Lite transferred information to affiliates without clearly stating which data was sent or how long it would be kept.
Apple used Siri recordings and transcripts to improve speech recognition and search results without separate consent through August 2019.
Apple began seeking permission for voice recordings in October 2019. However, transcripts continued to be used without a valid legal basis.
Apple later added more user choices, filtered personal details from transcripts, and updated its privacy policy during the investigation.
At Futureproof, Kevin explains digital safety in simple words, with clear tips and zero fluff. He holds a degree in information technology and studies fraud trends to keep his tips up-to-date.
In his free time, Kevin plays with his cat, enjoys board-game nights, and hunts for New York’s best cinnamon rolls.
