Realme, a popular smartphone company is facing serious controversy over the alleged data stealing. Rishi Bagree, a popular right winger took to Twitter and revealed that the Enhanced Intelligent Services features integrated into the device are stealing user data. Interestingly, the option is activated by default on all Realme smartphones. We checked our Realme 5 Pro but were unable to find this option. It looks like the company integrated the option in latest devices.
The Enhanced Intelligent Services automatically collects device information, app usage statistics, and other vital data. Bagree revealed that the Realme smartphones capture the user’s data such as call logs, SMS, and location info, and is activated by default. You can locate this feature by navigating to Settings | Additional Settings | System Services | Enhanced Intelligent Services. Bagree argues that this setting is forced consent because it’s ON by default.
Bagree’s revelation caught the attention of Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Minister of State for Information Technology who promised to deeply investigate the matter. In addition to Realme, BBK Electronics based in Guangzhou, China owns popular Chinese brands such as Vivo, Oppo, OnePlus, and iQoo. These devices are widely sold in India across both online and offline platforms.
The Enhanced Intelligent Services module is important for Realme smartphones. This is because the charging optimization feature needs to know when and how you work with apps. This feature is also required for wallpapers and personalization requirements. According to reports, all the devices manufactured by BBK Electronics have this feature.
If you are unaware, Send diagnostic data is also enabled by default on Samsung Galaxy phones. The data collection process is common for smartphone companies to enhance user experience. Realme has not yet responded to the allegations made by Bagree. The interesting point to note is that Realme CEO Madhav Sheth quit the company recently to find other opportunities.
