Over 1,100 Apps Caught Secretly Tracking Seniors' Location Data

Smartphone apps are collecting and selling older adults' daily routines without their knowledge or consent.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A new investigation has found that over 1,100 popular Android apps have been secretly collecting and selling the location data of senior citizens without their knowledge or consent. The apps gain access to users' location data through hidden permissions, then sell this sensitive information to data brokers who create detailed profiles of seniors' daily routines and behaviors.

Why it matters

This widespread misuse of personal data poses serious privacy and security risks for older adults, who are often less tech-savvy and more vulnerable to exploitation. The ability to track seniors' movements and determine when they are home alone raises concerns about potential targeting for theft, scams, or other crimes.

The details

The investigation examined over 1,100 popular Android apps and found that many were collecting users' phone identifiers and location data without proper disclosure or consent. This included apps that had no obvious need for location access, such as flashlight and weather apps. The data collected is then sold to advertising networks and data brokers, who use it to create highly detailed profiles of individuals' daily habits and behaviors.

  • The investigation was conducted in early 2026.

The players

Federal Trade Commission

The U.S. government agency that has emphasized that apps should limit permissions to only what is necessary for core functionality, advice that applies to users making permission decisions as well.

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What’s next

The Federal Trade Commission is expected to issue new guidelines and enforcement actions to address the widespread misuse of personal data by mobile apps.

The takeaway

This investigation highlights the urgent need for greater transparency and user control over how personal data, especially sensitive location information, is collected and used by mobile apps. Seniors must be empowered to make informed decisions about granting permissions and protecting their digital privacy.