US gov tells Apple chief Tim Cook: Send us a minion to grill
The US Congress has asked Apple to send a representative to Washington to face a grilling over iPhone privacy, after Cupertino's initial response to questioning was unsatisfactory and late. In addition, the furore over apps slurping photos from iPhones that broke at the end of February, has prompted a second set of questions …
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I thought the whole point of Apple's App Store certification was to prevent nasties?
I've evidently missed something, but then I don't have an iDevice.
The problem here is the definition of 'nasties'. Is an app that uses address book information to suggest other users you may know a 'nasty'?
Computer applications have had free access to all your data for years, but the boundaries for apps on mobile devices are still being defined.
I think from Apple's point of view, nasties include anyt app that's subtracting from it's bottom line
yes!
if it does not ask permission, even if the task at hand (e.g. Whats App) is obvious. I also want selective control over what is used. Maybe I don't want to upload ALL my data because I exactly know which one to invite or enable.
If it doesn't ask permission at any point - yes.
If on the other hand it asks permission and the user is too bone idle to check before they say agree - then no.
I wonder
... if the congressional wankers are worried that THEIR secrets might get out. Not that any true adult among us would be shocked by anything at this point.
Re: I wonder
Yeah, I'd say what secrets? :) Pretty much everything is already public knowledge now. So many scandals keep coming out that the populace is burned out on it and doesn't care anymore. The current reaction to a politician can't keep it in his pants story? "Meh, don't they all do that?" Occasionally I think it works for the older ones when the normal quote is - "Impressive, at his age?"
A marvellous opportunity
When the Apple reps do talk with the good Senators perhaps they (the Apple reps) can question the Senators about the US government's approach to citizen privacy.
Contempt of Congress
"The criminal offense of "contempt of Congress" sets the penalty at not less than one month nor more than twelve months in jail and a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $1,000"
Be nice to see some execs wallowing in the pokey.
Re: Contempt of Congress
Somehow I doubt that. The US is a financial oligarchy. What you're suggesting is like a local magistrate locking the King up for contempt. Law might technically allow it, but in reality, with the money & therefore political clout Apple has in the US - har de fucking har.
Re: Contempt of Congress
Harrrr.......umpf. So cynical.
If you want a visit from Apple, hang out in their bars and pick up the next lost unreleased iPhone. These Congressmen are behaving like spoiled brats. If you are not willing to play by the established rules, then you simply can't play.
apple shares UP $100 in the last month
can't they just buy congress? or has RIAAMPASS filled/"lobbied" the Capitol indulgencies to overflowing..??
Too late
Google beat them to it
http://www.sfexaminer.com/politics/congress/2012/01/googles-4q-lobbying-bill-triples-376-million
Oh ok then, carry on good corporate citizen!
Presumably Apple can just respond that they are checking address book contacts for known terrorists and/or pirates which they will them report to the relevant authorities... <see title>
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