SMEX is warning that Israeli-linked software secretly embedded in Samsung phones across the MENA poses a serious surveillance threat.

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/36145028

A nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing human rights in digital spaces across West Asia and North Africa — is warning that Israeli-linked software secretly embedded in Samsung phones across the MENA region poses a serious surveillance threat.

According to SMEX, Samsung’s A and M series devices either come preloaded with the app “Aura” or install it automatically through system updates, without the user’s consent. The application reportedly collects a wide range of personal and device-specific data, including IP addresses, device fingerprints, hardware details, and network information.

​​In 2022, Samsung MENA partnered with Israeli tech company IronSource, integrating its Aura software into Galaxy A and M series phones across the region. The partnership was publicly marketed as a way to “enhance user experience” with AI-powered apps and content suggestions.

  • Lucy :3@feddit.orgEnglish
    6·
    20 hours ago

    Buying a phone from external sources and flashing a custom ROM for good measures is probably the best way.

    • sunzu2@thebrainbin.org
      2·
      19 hours ago

      At this point, not running a custom ROM is an aissue of self respect.

      Imagine paying for something hard cash and then having some vermin use it against you.

      This a war and people need to start fighting back.