Police in some cities have access to a new technology that lets them access and download cell phone information during a traffic stop. The device is a Cellebrite cell phone extraction device (UFED). If you get pulled over for a traffic violaton, this device lets them download data from your smartphone (without your knowledge or permission) that could potentially be used or abused. Now, I respect the police and I obey the law, but I have big concerns about the privacy of my private information on my mobile phone (which is everything on it). What information is extracted from the smart phone with this device is not clear, but privacy issues have caused athe ACLU to be concerned about it, too.You've been reading a lot lately about hidden date files in your iPhone or Adrroid phones that were a big secret until some savvy techhie users discovered their existence. Some reports said that the phones automatically tracked the specific locations where you traveled, and other reports said that it only tracked the cell towers that were in the vicinity of where you traveled--even if you were not talking on your phone. You know your phone tracks whom you call, and who calls you, what internet sites you visit on your phone, what texts are exchanged, and so much more.
Users are understandably upset at this invasion of privacy, because no one has yet revealed what information is downloaded, what happens to it, what your rights are related to it, and how to eliminate those mysterious hidden files on the mobile phone. In the interim, if you get stopped, pull the battery out of the phone. Off isn't enough.
Respectfully submitted,
Jaclyn Kostner, Ph.D., http://www.distance.com/Expert in virtual communication, collaboraton, and community when people are NOT face to face
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