Apple's Revamped Privacy Website Offers Users Access to Their Data
19.10.2018 securityweek Apple

Apple users can now get a copy of the data the tech giant has on them, directly from a refreshed and expanded privacy website rolled out this week.

The revamped mini site provides users with easier and faster access to the personal information that Apple keeps, and appears meant to complement a series of new security and privacy features that were included in iOS 12 and macOS Mojave.

As expected, the Cupertino-based iPhone maker voices its commitment to user safety and privacy on the mini site, where it also lists the features that it has included in its products in this regard.

“We’re committed to keeping your personal information safe. That’s why we innovate ways to safeguard your privacy on your device, why we’re up front about how we personalize your experience, and why we equip developers with the best tools to protect your data,” Apple says.

On top of that, the company also provides users with information on how to manage their privacy and what tools they can take advantage of for that. Thus, the privacy-focused website offers details on how users can keep devices, data, and their Apple ID secure, as well as on how they can protect themselves from phishing.

Apple users can also access a Data and Privacy page where a series of dedicated privacy management tools are available. These allow users not only to grab a copy of their data, but also to request a correction to that data, and even deactivate their Apple ID temporarily, or delete their accounts and the data associated with them, permanently.

At the moment, the self-service data and privacy tools are available to users in the United States, the European Union, Australia, Canada, Iceland, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, and Switzerland.

However, Apple says customers around the world will get access to the same capabilities in the coming months. In the meantime, users in other countries or regions can request a correction to their data or delete their account and associated data, and can also contact Apple to request a copy of their data.

The tech company also reveals that, after conducting a review of its data collection practices, it has decided to include new and updated data and privacy statements in Apple products, “to make it easier than ever to understand how Apple will use your personal information.”

These statements are showed before the user signs in with their Apple ID or turns on any new features that use their data, the company says.

The privacy website also allows users to access a transparency report page, which includes information on the “various forms of legal process requesting information from or actions by Apple.” These range from government requests for locating lost or stolen devices to requests for user data, emergency requests, and requests from private parties in the U.S. seeking customer data.