FBI's Use of Push Notifications for Surveillance Sparks Privacy Concerns

The FBI's adoption of push notifications to track suspects has led to over 130 court requests, raising alarms among privacy advocates.

The FBI has been using push notifications, a common smartphone feature, to track down suspects involved in serious crimes, including child abuse and kidnapping.
Over 130 petitions seeking access to push notification metadata have been filed in US courts, highlighting the technique's widespread use.
Privacy advocates warn that this surveillance method could be misused for purposes beyond serious crimes, such as tracking political activists or women seeking abortions in states where the procedure is restricted.
Tech companies like Apple and Google, which operate push notification services, have been compelled by governments to hand over user data, raising concerns about user privacy.
The technique has been defended by law enforcement officials, who argue it provides a vital tool for apprehending criminals, but it has also prompted calls for greater transparency and legal oversight.