Facebook has been in the press in recent days for storing, in some cases, years’ worth of call logs and text messages from Android handsets.
Users discovered the logs in the wake of the Cambridge Analytica scandal. Many are looking at ways to delete the data they share with Facebook or delete the number of apps that can access their data. In the course of these efforts it became clear that Facebook has been storing user phone data.
Looking to get ahead of the story, Facebook said users opted in to provide that data. In a blog post, the social network says:
“Call and text history logging is part of an opt-in feature for people using Messenger or Facebook Lite on Android. When you sign up for Messenger or Facebook Lite on Android, or log into Messenger on an Android device, you are given the option to continuously upload your contacts as well as your call and text history.”
During the sign-in process, users can choose turn it on, learn more, or skip the syncing process. Facebook claims people can opt out of the feature at any time, as well as turn off continuous call and text history logging while keeping contact sync intact. People may also delete the contact information they have uploaded from the app if they wish.
“We never sell this data,” insisted Facebook, “and this feature does not collect the content of your text messages or calls.”
The company says time stamps associated with calls and texts are stored securely and not given to third parties. This issues does not impact iOS devices.
Android users may want to check the settings of their device to see if they’ve opted into the text/call logging feature. Again read the TOS, than just clicking when you install an app.
