Pokémon GO/en
Description
Pokémon GO is a free-to-play, augmented reality game created by Niantic. The main objective of the game is searching and catching pokemon in real world locations. To that end, the game uses the geolocation function of our phone. Some real world locations are interaction points in the game, where users can restock or compete. It has been developed with the Unity graphic engine and it was launched on mobile platforms in the summer of 2016.
Privacy
Points of interest in Pokémon GO's privacy policy: All personal information about the user's login is store in Niantic's servers (This is much like most applications). Geolocation is the base of the game, so it needs to be activated in order to use the App. All the data about our location is very precise, will be stored and can be shared with other users. Being stored in US servers, the privacy laws of said country apply. If the user denies permission to transfer that information, the app's functionality will be hindered. On installation on an Android device, total access to contacts and Bluetooth settings is requested. All information about the user stored by Niantic may be shared with third parties and to governments and law enforcement agencies via law suit: “We may share your user name and location (or that of minors under your guardianship) through the App with other users playing the same game.” All information will remain in storage even if the App is deleted from our mobile device.
Controversy and repercussions
Few days after lauch, Pokemon GO caused great controversy about the possible repercussions which the use of the App could bring. The cause were users who, in order to catch pokemon, went to locations marked by the game that were deemed dangerous, or were unsafe at certain hours for underage users. Malicious users could use the game to predict areas where users could be lured, which could lead to muggings, rapes and other calamities. There were also road safety issues around the application, as many users played while driving, which evidently posed a great threat to themselves and those around them, as they would ignore traffic regulations in order to get to certain pokemon.
Conclusion
User should extreme caution with the use of this kind of application, it is important to always be aware of the threat of exposing oneself so directly to other users. Especially young users that want to play Pokemon GO should be made aware of the threats. In this app the use of our data is the least of our problems, the main concern is the use we make of it and the precautions we take to enjoy the game safely.
