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Smartphones quietly exchange data even when we sleep — and while much of it is essential for smooth performance, security experts warn that some background connections reveal far more about our behaviour than most users realise.
The biggest mistake is assuming that default settings are automatically safe. Security specialists from NordVPN say many phones send and receive far more background data than necessary — and some of it can be used to build detailed behavioural profiles.
Why your phone talks to servers at night
Even in standby mode, a smartphone maintains regular contact with system services and manufacturer servers. These exchanges typically include:
- System telemetry — status reports, crash logs, diagnostics
- Device identifiers — unique codes that help maintain service continuity
- Push notification checks — ensuring apps can deliver alerts
- Update queries — checking for OS or app patches
- Connectivity signals — confirming WiFi or mobile network status
These processes keep apps synced, emails updated and the device reachable. NordVPN CTO Marijus Briedis stresses that such exchanges are legitimate and necessary for reliable operation.
Where background data becomes problematic
The issue isn’t that phones communicate — it’s what they communicate.
Identifiers that enable cross‑app tracking
Even when no app is open, identifiers like advertising IDs allow companies to:
- Link activity across apps
- Build long-term behavioural profiles
- Recognise users across devices
These identifiers are not essential for core phone functions.
Location signals without GPS
Even with GPS off, approximate location can be inferred from:
- WiFi network IDs
- Bluetooth beacons
- Nearby network metadata
Continuous behavioural analytics
Many phones run background diagnostics that track:
- App usage patterns
- Interaction times
- System events
- Behavioural signals
Individually harmless — but together, they form a detailed picture. Briedis warns: “Each signal is a puzzle piece. Combined, they can expose sensitive behaviour patterns.”
What you can do to reduce background tracking
1. Review app permissions
Focus on:
- Location access
- Background data
- Tracking permissions
- Microphone and camera access
These can easily become permanent data channels.
2. Limit background refresh
- iOS: Einstellungen > Allgemein > Hintergrundaktualisierung
- Android: Per-App in den Optionen für mobile Daten und WLAN
3. Reduce cloud syncing
Disable automatic backups for content you don’t need mirrored constantly.
4. Turn off advertising tracking
Reset or disable the advertising ID to reduce cross‑app profiling.
5. Restrict WiFi/Bluetooth scanning
Especially on Android, scanning can run even when toggles are off.
The real problem: Trusting default settings
Briedis summarises the core issue: “The biggest mistake is assuming default settings are secure.”
A combination of smart permission management and modern security tools can significantly reduce background tracking — but only if users take control of their settings.
- source: futurezone.com/pictures: copilot.microsoft.com/pixabay.com
