Tech Analyst warns of privacy risks associated with True Caller, other Apps

Managing Partner and Tech Analyst at E-Consult 101, Barnabas Laryea has issued a stark warning about the dangers of using certain smartphone applications, particularly True Caller.

He cautioned that True Caller, often hailed as a convenient tool for identifying unknown callers, poses significant privacy risks to its users and their contacts.

Laryea highlighted the alarming capability of True Caller to access users’ contact databases and compile extensive profiles based on saved numbers.

“True Caller will know my number just because you have my number in your phone contact data,” he explained.

“It has an algorithm built in such a way that it can cross-reference contacts saved by different users, potentially exposing sensitive information.” He said in an interview with Johnnie Hughes and Helen Appiah-Ampofo on 3FM Sunrise Morning Show on March 18.

He illustrated the extent of this risk with a hypothetical scenario: “If Helen, DJ Abiam, and you all have my number saved under different names, True Caller can consolidate these variations and assign the most commonly used name to my contact. So, anyone using True Caller and calling me would see my name as ‘pope,’ for instance.”

Furthermore, Laryea emphasized the broader implications of indiscriminate app usage, citing real-life examples of privacy breaches. He recounted a chilling incident in Bangladesh where a person was killed due to the exploitation of a powerful software via WhatsApp.

“They basically call you with a spy web, and once your phone connects to WhatsApp, it automatically starts recording the environment,” Laryea revealed.

Expressing concern over the widespread disregard for privacy practices, Laryea urged caution and advocated for greater awareness among users, especially the youth. “Don’t for a second fool yourself. If you don’t have to send a message, just don’t do it. It’s too risky,” he cautioned.

The tech Analyst stressed the importance of exercising caution while using smartphone apps and adopting privacy measures such as limiting data storage and being mindful of the information shared online.

“All my WhatsApp conversations are disappearing messages after 24 hours unless you are my wife or am doing business with you. I don’t store data so I usually tell people that my phone is not a library to be holding conversations. I don’t keep my messages and I feel that is one of the security practices I do. There are certain things some people have to learn, some of the privacy functions for instance for WhatsApp”, he asserted.

Laryea’s insightful remarks serve as a timely reminder for smartphone users to prioritize their privacy and adopt responsible digital habits in an increasingly connected world.

By Joselyn Kafui Nyadzi

The post Tech Analyst warns of privacy risks associated with True Caller, other Apps first appeared on 3News.

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