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Apple plans to change its Hide My Email privacy feature that could make it lesseffective
Apple is modifying its Hide My Email feature, which allows users to create anonymous email addresses, by changing them to a new domain (@private.icloud.com), potentially enabling apps and websites to block anonymous sign-ups. While existing addresses will still work, users have criticized this change for making the service less effective in maintaining privacy.
Key points
- Apple plans to change its Hide My Email feature, affecting email addresses generated for anonymity.
- The domain change from @icloud.com to @private.icloud.com may allow websites and apps to identify and block these addresses more easily.
- This change means users may face difficulty in signing up for services without revealing their real email addresses.
- Apple did not provide an explanation for this change and users are voicing concerns on Reddit.
- The move follows a report of Apple providing real account information to authorities, raising questions about user privacy.
Why it matters
- The trend toward increasing restrictions on online anonymity is prevalent in tech industries, especially post-COVID.
- Privacy features have become crucial amidst rising surveillance and data protection debates.
- In recent years, tech companies are under pressure to comply with government requests, reflecting a shift in user privacy norms.
Apple's adjustment to its Hide My Email feature may compromise user privacy by making it easier for services to block anonymous sign-ups, reflecting broader internet privacy concerns and governmental pressures on tech companies.