Unauthorised tracking via Appcloud?

[huffyyy]

Hi. I've just come across a post on insta that says that Samsung phones come with an app called AppCloud which collects data and sends over to israeli intelligence firms. Can someone confirm if this is true, as this is very concerning, and the only reason I switched to Samsung was it was one of the only "ethical" brands. 

[Tourbillon De La Vie]

Nope.

[johnz237]

Incorrect.

You can find all programs in settings, apps, *three lines*, then click "Show system apps." Here, you'll find what's there.

Social media is full of incorrect fear-mongering.

[huffyyy]

Thanks both!

[Piper123]

On Instagram so it must be true 😂😂.

Like believing Facebook

[huffyyy]

Hey, no need to be snarky! I just wanted to confirm this first before jumping to conclusions!

[Star_girl]

How can it be true when Huawei have been banned for being suspected on spying on their customers few years ago? I don't think Apple would dare to do that and face obsolution. Apple is an American brand.

[JAMES4578]

Certainly not true. Appcloud is preinstalled on some Samsung Devices, this tends to be only Budget and Mid Range Devices though. Appcloud installs certain third party apps. However can be disabled.

You could check the Galaxy Store settings to try and avoid the automatic downloading of apps. Go to Settings - Apps - Galaxy Store - Mobile Data > Allow background data usage: toggle it off.

Now go back one step and select Change system settings - Allow permission- Toggle it off.

In security setttings Select Install unknown apps - Allow from this source- Toggle it off.

Auto Blocker is only available on Devices running One UI6 and above.

[Star_girl]

I read Apple Cloud. I just realised.😅

It's good you are giving the advice on how customers can stay protected from this. I wonder why Samsung is keeping it for midrange and budget devices.

[S_Burris]

I mean, it sounds like you're confirming that Samsung does, indeed, install dangerous spyware on some devices. This is disturbing, and they should stop bundling it with anything.

From what I've seen online, it does appear that it should be possible to uninstall AppCloud without resorting to adb debugging or third party firmwares just by searching it up in Settings- Apps, which is good. Those using M or A devices should check for an AppCloud infection, uninstall AppCloud if it is present, and confirm after any 'upgrades' that it has not reinfected their device.