Pokémon Go is about to head into a new chapter with the upcoming launch of Generation III, but a recent discovery in the game’s privacy policy has players worried.
The Silph Road noticed an update to Pokémon Go‘s privacy policy that raises some suspicions. In subsection D of the privacy notes, as seen below, Niantic details what can be accessed on an authorized player’s phone. Apart from the standard identifiers for an operating system and user settings Niantic uses, it seems they now can also obtain “information about other applications installed on your (or your authorized child’s) device.”
via The Silph Road
While the company does not go on to explain why it can see what apps a user has installed, many believe it relates to the abuse of third-party applications that can exploit the game. Since the launch of Pokémon Go, Niantic has had an issue with trainers using GPS-spoofing apps that can either manipulate where the player is or tell them of any nearby Pokémon within a certain radius. Both exploits are technically cheating, as the point of the game is to physically travel to new areas to discover what Pokémon are available. In turn, it’s likely Niantic isn’t snooping around users’ phones to sell personal information but instead is attempting to crack down on cheaters.
Still, it’s understandable for players to have concerns over the discreet privacy policy change. Most apps store sensitive information that should only be accessed with the user’s permission, and while Niantic probably isn’t looking to exploit its players, there are serious possibilities to consider. For example, hackers could gain access to a trainer’s phone through Niantic’s servers. Also, with the company’s strong focus on banning third-party apps, trainers could start seeing punishments over the use of harmless apps, like IV checkers.
Niantic seemed to want to introduce this new change quietly, but with as much traction as its getting in the community, we’ll likely hear a formal response soon. For now, players can get prepared for the launch of Generation III in December and catch the final Legendary Beast before it’s gone forever.
Pokémon Go is available for iOS and Android.
Source: Game Rant
