EFF report finds mobile ad libraries may leak user location data

What happened

EFF released a new report highlighting how mobile ad libraries can cause apps to unintentionally expose users' location information. The investigation notes that this leakage can reveal intimate details about individuals and be exploited by advertisers. The report is discussed in the latest EFFector newsletter and podcast episode.

Why it matters for trust and compliance

• Its status is announced. It is not law yet. Track it, but do not treat it as an obligation.
• The findings raise privacy concerns about location tracking by ad SDKs and underscore the need for stronger safeguards.

Who is affected

Recommended actions

1. Review consent, cookie and tracking practices against the requirement.
2. Check that privacy notices describe the practices this addresses.
3. Inventory where this data is shared or sold and whether opt-outs are honoured.
4. Inventory AI or automated decision systems in scope and their assessments.