Privacy Claims Over Apple and Siri
In recent years, the scandals experienced by technology giants regarding user data have raised concerns, especially regarding privacy and data security. In this context, allegations have emerged that Apple recorded users' private conversations without permission through the Siri feature. Between 2014 and 2024, millions of people who used Apple devices were involved in a major lawsuit due to these allegations.
Siri Eavesdropping Allegations
The California lawsuit, “Lopez v. Apple,” involves allegations that Apple devices record users’ private conversations when their Siri voice assistant is inadvertently activated, and that these recordings are passed on to advertising companies. Users have reported receiving ads related to certain topics after talking to their friends about them. For example, some users have reported receiving ads on their phones for “Air Jordan” shoes or the “Olive Garden” restaurant after chatting about those brands.
Confessions of Apple Employees
In 2019, an Apple whistleblower revealed that the company was listening to Siri recordings of subcontractors and using these recordings to measure the assistant’s accuracy. These recordings included doctor interviews, intimate moments, and conversations about illegal activities. Apple stopped the program after this incident and announced that only 0.2% of the recordings were reviewed, anonymized, and not linked to user identities.
Right to Compensation and Application Process
As a result of the settlement reached between Apple and the court, users who suspect unauthorized activation of Siri may file a lawsuit for damages. The maximum damages are $20 per device, and up to $100 in total, limited to five devices. As part of the settlement, anyone who believes that their private or confidential conversations were eavesdropped on between September 17, 2014 and December 31, 2024 is encouraged to file a lawsuit for damages.
Application Dates and Process
Compensation applications can be made through the official website of Lopez Voice Assistant Settlement until July 2, 2025. No email or postal notification is required for the application. Users can apply only by declaration. However, there is an important point: By applying for this settlement, individuals will be deemed to have waived the right to file a new lawsuit against Apple or to participate in another class action lawsuit on the same issue.
Court Process and Results
The court will approve the settlement between Apple and users at a hearing on August 1, 2025. If no objections or appeals are filed against the settlement, compensation payments will begin in the summer. Users' compensation claims are considered an important step in privacy and data security.
Privacy and Security Concerns
These developments on Apple’s Siri feature are increasing users’ concerns about privacy and security. Tech giants need to provide transparency on how they protect user data and how this data is used. It is important for users to know their rights regarding the protection of their personal data and to defend these rights.
Conclusion
Privacy and data security are extremely important issues for every individual today. These allegations regarding Apple’s Siri feature are a lesson for other technology giants on how they should approach user data. Users should carefully review privacy policies and take the necessary steps to ensure the security of their personal data.
