An IT expert has raised significant alarms about the potential for smartphones to invade users’ privacy, even when seemingly turned off. Mohammed Nafeez, who brings over 13 years of experience in the industry, discussed these pressing concerns during an interview in Lautoka. He highlighted a crucial gap in users’ understanding of how modern smartphones operate.
Nafeez pointed out that unlike older models equipped with removable batteries, today’s smartphones can continue to run background functions when they appear to be switched off. This means that devices might still transmit users’ location data, enabling real-time tracking. The implications of this technology are alarming, as it raises the possibility of microphones being activated secretly, potentially recording personal conversations without consent.
The threats extend further than tracking alone. Nafeez warned that smartphone cameras could also be turned on discreetly, transforming private moments into opportunities for surveillance. In the context of Fiji, where mobile banking and communication are increasingly common, these concerns are particularly alarming and warrant serious attention.
He illustrated the potential dangers with concrete examples: a journalist probing corruption in Lautoka could unknowingly be monitored, a business executive in Suva might find sensitive negotiations compromised, and a government employee in Labasa could be vulnerable during confidential discussions. Such scenarios underline the dual nature of devices meant to facilitate everyday tasks while also posing serious threats to users’ privacy.
This discussion comes at a crucial time as Fiji is also considering proposals to limit mobile phone ownership among individuals under 18, prompted by concerns about children’s exposure to unsuitable content and the risks associated with screen addiction. Nafeez’s insights resonate within this discourse, highlighting an urgent need for societal reflection on technology’s integration into daily life, especially for the younger generation.
As communities engage in these pressing conversations, there is a sense of optimism for the future. By recognizing the necessity for enhanced protective measures, individuals can foster healthier relationships with technology. Encouraging responsible usage and open discussions about the digital environment may empower families and communities, steering them toward a more secure and informed approach to navigating the evolving landscape of technology.