A recent article from TechCrunch reported that various apps in the iOS App Store secretly recording users’ screen without their permissions, includes popular apps like Abercrombie & Fitch, Hotels.com, Expedia, and more, it uses the “session replay" screen recording feature called Glassbox, that allows developers screenshot or record or a user's screen, and have the ability to play back those recordings.
However, Apple is now urging developers that are using session replay must extract the code as soon as possible. In an email provided to TechCrunch, Apple states that they will take action if necessary to remove these apps from the App Store. "We have notified the developers that are in violation of these strict privacy terms and guidelines, and will take immediate action if necessary", says the company.
"Protecting user privacy is paramount in the Apple ecosystem. Our App Store Review Guidelines require that apps request explicit user consent and provide a clear visual indication when recording, logging, or otherwise making a record of user activity."
"We have notified the developers that are in violation of these strict privacy terms and guidelines, and will take immediate action if necessary," the spokesperson added.
In addition, Apple is also demanding developers that record the screen need to have a little red icon on the top left the corner of the phone, similar to how Apple's native Screen Recording feature works - by showing a red bar on the top of the display that notifies you the screen is being recorded.
Image Via MacStories
Image Via MacStories