The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has published new guidelines for app developers to be clearer about what data is being accessed.
The move comes following a survey that revealed nearly half of all app users have decided not to download an app because of concerns over privacy.
John Thielens, chief security officer at Axway commented: "The ICO’s survey shows yet again that security is the main factor putting the brakes on technology advancement and adoption. Transparency is the be all and end all for consumers when it comes to their personal information. They need to know exactly where their data is, who’s accessing it and what they’re doing with it, or the app industry risks being de-railed."
That survey conducted by YouGov and commissioned by the ICO found that 59% have downloaded apps, but that 62% of them are concerned about resulting privacy issues. 49% said they have decided not to download at least one app due to these fears.
Thielens also expressed concerns about the effect it may have on enterprise mobility: "We’re seeing a big rise in demand for apps for the enterprise. The BYOD movement, combined with the dominance of smartphones and tablets means employees, partners and customers alike want to access information anytime, anywhere. In this scenario, the security burden is heavily weighted on the business."
He added: "With their necks on the line, businesses need to take on granular data governance throughout an organisation. Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) form the foundation of any app development, and its API management that puts businesses back in the driving seat when it comes to controlling the flow of data beyond the enterprise edge."
The ICO will be following up its guidelines in the new year to check that they’re being implemented.
