Apple is Seeking to Patent Spyware

Apple's recent patent filing attempt on Spyware has caused a stir. As defined on Wikipedia, Spyware is a type of malware that is installed on computers and collects little bits of information at a time about users without their knowledge.

If the patent application is to be approved by the Patent Office eventually, it could bring privacy issues. Apple will be secretly collecting, storing and potentially using sensitive biometric information about you. Apple will be using its patented devices to monitor devices which are jailbroken which Apple views as "unauthorized" even if it is perfectly legal under copyright law.

This patent is downright creepy and invasive — certainly far more than would be needed to respond to the possible loss of a phone. Spyware, and its new cousin traitorware, will hurt customers and companies alike — Apple should shelve this idea before it backfires on both it and its customers.

This Patent Application should be one of the more high profile ones. DO NOT BE EVIL.

Steve Jobs Is Watching You: Apple Seeking to Patent Spyware [via]