Apple has reached an agreement to pay $95 million to resolve allegations regarding the eavesdropping capabilities of its virtual assistant, Siri. The lawsuit claimed that Apple’s practices betrayed its commitment to user privacy by suggesting that Siri was listening in on conversations without the knowledge of users.
The legal action was initiated by the Wood Law Firm in August 2019, following a report by The Guardian, which indicated that Siri’s microphone was being activated without explicit triggers, thus recording conversations to refine the technology. The lawsuit suggests that this data may have been shared with advertisers aimed at targeting consumers.
The settlement, currently awaiting judicial approval, could potentially benefit tens of millions of U.S. consumers who owned Siri-enabled devices between September 17, 2014, and the end of 2022. Eligible consumers may receive up to $20 for each device, though the total payout could depend on the claims submitted and legal costs.
While Apple has firmly denied any wrongdoing, insisting it would have prevailed in court, the case raises significant questions about privacy rights. Apple’s decision to settle, rather than engage in prolonged litigation, reflects a broader strategy often employed by large corporations to mitigate financial and reputational risks.
Additionally, concerns regarding the privacy of devices equipped with microphones continue to be relevant, as similar lawsuits are pending against other tech giants, such as Google.
For individuals worried about potential surveillance through their devices, it is advisable to disable microphones and virtual assistants like Siri. Instructions for doing so on Apple devices are straightforward and can help users regain control over their privacy.
The outcome of this case highlights the ongoing discussions around technology and privacy, encouraging consumers to stay informed and proactive about their digital security. It serves as a reminder of the importance of corporate accountability in maintaining user trust, especially in an increasingly connected world.