China Labels Apple's iPhone5 A Security Threat

China Labels iPhone a Security Threat -- WSJ

Broadcast by State-Run CCTV Cites Researchers Who Say Tracking App Could Expose 'State Secrets'

BEIJING—China's influential state broadcaster on Friday called a location-tracking function offered by Apple Inc. AAPL +0.19% 's iPhone a "national security concern," in the latest sign of a backlash in the country against U.S. technology firms.

In its national noon broadcast, state-run China Central Television criticized the "frequent locations" function in Apple's iOS 7 mobile operating system, which records time and location for the owner's movements. The report quoted researchers who said that those with access to that data could gain knowledge of China's economic situation or "even state secrets."

Apple didn't respond to requests for comment. The company describes the tracking function as an aid to iPhone users, for example by providing efficient travel routes. The feature can disabled in the device's settings.

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More News On China Labeling Apple's iPhone5 A Security Threat

Apple iPhone a danger to China national security: state media -- Reuters
China thinks the iPhone's tracking features are a risk to national security (update: Apple responds) -- Endgadget
Apple Denies China Assertions on IPhone as Security Risk -- Bloomberg
Apple tells China it doesn't monitor iPhone users' locations -- CNet
Apple quickly counters China claim of iPhone spying -- Computer World
Huawei's Revenge; Chinese State Media Brands Apple's iPhone Security Risk -- Jim Worstall, Forbes