author: Mateusz Popielak
Xiaomi Accused of Spying Users
Xiaomi has been accused of violating its users' privacy. MI browsers are said to collect personal data that allow for a user to be identified even in incognito mode.
Forbes has published an article accusing Xiaomi of collecting sensitive user data. The problem is not the OS, but the applications of the company, namely Mi Browser Pro and Mint Browser.
Tests conducted by the speciallist Gabi Criling have shown that information such as browsing history is sent to Alibaba servers rented by Xiaomi. The data contains the parameters of the device in use and a unique identifier. Forbes claims that browsers also collect information when using Incognito mode.
Xiaomi quickly responded to the accusations. The company posted an entry on their blog explaining that users' privacy is a priority for them and Forbes misinterpreted their actions. The company also published technical data, referring to the accusations.
"Xiaomi hosts information on a public cloud infrastructure that is common and well known in the industry. All information from our overseas services and users is stored on servers in various overseas markets where local user privacy protection laws and regulations are strictly followed and with which we fully comply."
As for the websites we are browsing, Xiaomi informs that the data is only synchronized if:
- The user is signed in on Mi Account;
- The data sync function is set to “On” in Settings.
According to Xiaomi, information is used to improve the experience quality when using Mi. As an example, it is possible to visit previously displayed websites after logging into an account on another device. In addition, Xiaomi published code fragments, convincing that the data is properly encrypted and only goes to their own servers. However, the company met with a retort that the encryption concerns the connection, and not the data itself.
Xiaomi has released an update to its browsers that enables us to disable data collection in incognito mode. Just go to Settings -> Incognito mode settings -> Enhanced Incognito Mode. The safest solution in the current situation seems to be to simply stop using your built-in browser until the situation is clear.
Today, Xiaomi will hold a press conference to discuss recent developments. All we can do is wait for the situation to develop.