**India Plans Tighter Phone Surveillance, Tech Giants Push Back**
India is considering a new rule that may allow authorities to more closely track people’s phone locations. The plan has raised serious concerns from global tech companies like Apple, Google, and Samsung. These companies argue that the plan could affect user privacy and weaken phone security.
According to a report by Reuters published within the past 48 hours, India’s government wants to directly collect location data from mobile phones. Currently, location information is mainly shared by telecom providers using methods like cell tower tracking. However, the new proposal would require mobile devices themselves to send their location data directly to the government.
Tech giants fear this move could force them to change how their devices operate. Apple, Google, and Samsung all use built-in software to protect user privacy and stop unauthorized tracking. These companies say that adding government access could open the door to misuse and leave users less safe.
This proposal is still under review by the Indian government. It is part of a wider plan to update emergency alert systems across the country. Supporters claim it will help locate people quickly during disasters or missing person cases. However, experts argue the cost to privacy may be too high.
Industry groups and digital rights activists have voiced their concerns too. They warn that the rule might lead to more government monitoring and less freedom for users. With India being one of the largest smartphone markets in the world, any regulation here affects millions of users and major tech firms alike.
Negotiations between the Indian government and tech companies are ongoing. Apple, Google, and Samsung have asked for better clarity and stronger limits on how the data will be used.
This debate highlights a bigger global issue: how to balance public safety with personal privacy. As governments everywhere push for more access to digital data, tech firms and citizens are raising important questions about rights and safeguards.
If the rule goes forward, India would be one of the few countries where mobile devices share user locations directly with authorities. The final decision is expected in the coming months.
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