New Research Shows That TikTok Browser Tracks Users’ Keystrokes
New research shows that the TikTok web browser can track every keystroke of its users. This is according to a Chinese-owned video app, which is currently being investigated by U.S. lawmakers over its data practices.
Felix Krause, a former Google engineer, and privacy researcher provided research that did not reveal how TikTok used this capability. It is embedded in the in-app browser, which pops up whenever someone clicks on an external link. However, Mr. Krause stated that the development was alarming because it revealed TikTok could track users’ online activities if it wanted to.
Malware and other hacking tools often collect information about what people type on their phones when they visit outside websites. This can reveal credit card numbers, passwords, and even credit card numbers. Researchers said that while major tech companies may use these trackers to test new software, they are unlikely to release major commercial apps with this feature.
Jane Manchun Wong is an independent software engineer and security researcher who examines apps for new features. “Based on Krause’s findings, TikTok’s custom in-app web browser monitors keystrokes was problematic. The user might enter sensitive data such login credentials on other websites.”
She stated that TikTok’s browser in-app could “extract information” from users’ external browsing sessions. This is something some users find excessive.
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