Introduction:

Recent revelations by security researchers indicate that Meta and Yandex have been using native Android apps to exploit localhost ports, facilitating a method to connect web browsing data with user identities while bypassing standard privacy protections. This disturbing practice prompted Meta to cease this data collection method in an effort to comply with Google Play policies.

Key Details:

• Who: Meta (Facebook, Instagram) and Yandex (Maps, Browser).
• What: Discovered covert tracking via native apps listening on localhost ports.
• When: The tracking method was observed starting in September 2024 but has reportedly ceased as of June 2025.
• Where: These practices affect users on Android devices globally.
• Why: This approach allowed for the aggregation of web cookie data, undermining user privacy expectations.
• How: By leveraging localhost to gather browser data from scripts running on mobile sites, these apps could link user identities with browsing activity, even when employing privacy features like Incognito Mode.

Why It Matters:

This issue affects various aspects of IT infrastructure:

• Enterprise Security: The bypassing of common privacy measures raises significant concerns about user data handling.
• Compliance: Organizations must reconsider their data collection practices in light of possible legal repercussions for similar activities.
• Privacy Resilience: IT professionals need to be aware of evolving tracking methods and reassess compliance with emerging regulations related to user data protection.

Takeaway:

IT professionals should stay vigilant regarding tracking technologies and their implications for privacy and compliance. Consider reviewing your organization’s data collection strategies and stay updated on industry responses to ensure alignment with best practices.

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