How does an app like Threads get access to financial, political, health, religious or browsing info through your phone's OS. What is the actual source of that data? - eviltoast

I’m trying to understand how an app would even get that info in the first place, how that’s classified and why a mobile operating system even has a way to provide that data.

Am I correct in assuming that if an app is used without play store / play store framework that it would not be able to get access to that data?

Thanks!

  • AwkwardLookMonkeyPuppet@lemmy.world
    4·
    1 year ago

    They infer it through your activities online. If you’re constantly visiting the Mercedes Benz website they can determine that you’re likely in the upper middle class. They use information like that, combined with an evaluation of your approximate education level based on the way you type, combined with what you say, to figure out your income bracket. Then they scan all of your comments, location history, pictures, contacts etc., and put together a profile on your likely interests, political affiliation, and other relevant information for advertisers. It is all very sophisticated and creepy.