Thanks to iOS 14’s new security feature, Instagram users became aware of a 'bug' that indicated the camera was in use, even when they weren’t actively using the camera. This is just the latest example of how the new security feature available as part of the beta release of iOS 14 is making users more aware of the information apps collect. In addition to the permissions that are granted to an app.
As part of iOS 14, an indicator appears at the top of the screen whenever the microphone or camera is in use. Another of the new security features is the greater requirement of apps needing permission before tracking the user's app activity, along with the ability to further limit how much tracking takes place. Instagram isn’t the only app that the security feature has cracked down on. It also recently alerted TikTok users to the fact that the app had access to their clipboard. As the clipboard allows iPhone users to copy and paste information from one app to another it is wise to know which apps are monitoring this, considering the content being copied can sometimes be sensitive, such as a password or even credit card information.
Instagram has since explained the issue by saying it’s a bug, and that the service is fixing it. In addition, Instagram has assured users that it does not access their cameras without permission. A spokesperson informed The Verge that the app only accesses the camera when it’s supposed to do so, when someone is taking a photo or recording a video. The statement also went on to offer two explanations as to why the iOS 14 security feature might be saying Instagram is accessing the camera when it isn’t. One is the app’s Create Mode, which allows users to post content to their stories without actually posting a video or a picture. The other is that swiping from the Instagram feed to the camera could trigger the security feature.
Security & Privacy More Important Than Ever
iOS 14 is still in its early stages, with a launch planned for the fall. Therefore, it’s important to remember that, while it’s still in beta mode, the security feature may not be entirely infallible. At the same time, discovering that Instagram might be accessing the camera without user permission is alarming. Casually scrolling through Instagram is a common pastime for many, and now people are spending even more time inside and on their phones. Whether on Instagram, TikTok or another app, people need to know that their private information is secure. The apps people use every day are important to them, as a way to express creativity, their political views, or simply as a way to keep in touch with family and friends.
If the iOS 14 security feature has sharper teeth than necessary, at least while in beta, it may not be the worst thing. While the Instagram incident is just a bug that the company is working on fixing, the issue of security and privacy while using a phone -- and while using the Internet itself -- is one that users should be more aware of. Apple has recently sought out people to participate in a program which tests out security features on the iPhone, which is another example of how much more seriously the company is taking iOS security.
Source: The Verge