For millions of iPhone users worldwide, the promise of privacy has long been one of Apple’s major selling points. But as digital threats grow ever more sophisticated, many are learning that their personal information isn’t as protected as they might have hoped—unless they take a few crucial steps themselves. Recent reports from Khoa học và Đời sống and Sohas News have highlighted a simple but often overlooked feature on Apple devices that could make all the difference in keeping your data safe from prying eyes.
Let’s face it: in today’s hyper-connected world, our smartphones are treasure troves of personal details. Contacts, locations, and even our everyday habits are stored on these devices. According to Khoa học và Đời sống, as of August 11, 2025, many iPhone users remain unaware that some apps can secretly track and collect this sensitive data, including names, locations, and phone usage habits. If you’re not careful about which permissions you grant, you might lose control over your data—sometimes without even realizing it.
Why does this matter? Well, the consequences go far beyond a few pesky ads. When apps are allowed to track users without restriction, personal information can be gathered and used in ways you never intended. Sohas News notes that this can lead to a host of problems, from intrusive advertising and scams to the risk of sensitive information leaking into the wrong hands. It’s a sobering thought: your daily routine, your whereabouts, and even your contacts could be quietly harvested and sold to third parties, fueling everything from targeted marketing to fraud.
Apple, for its part, has long touted the robust security features of its devices—especially the iPhone. Still, as both Sohas News and Khoa học và Đời sống point out, not everyone knows how to take full advantage of these protections. The company has built in a feature designed to block apps from requesting to track users, but this safeguard isn’t always enabled by default. That means unless you take action, your data could still be at risk.
So, what can you do? The answer is refreshingly simple, and it only takes a few seconds. Both publications recommend the following steps: open your iPhone’s Settings, navigate to Privacy & Security, and then tap on Tracking. Here, you’ll find the option labeled ‘Allow Apps to Request to Track.’ By toggling this off, you can prevent apps from asking for permission to track your activity across other companies’ apps and websites. If you prefer, you can also disable tracking for individual apps, giving you more granular control over your privacy.
“Disabling this feature takes only a few seconds and helps prevent unauthorized tracking,” Sohas News reports. That’s a small investment of time for a big boost in security. And the benefits are immediate: your iPhone will stop apps from even requesting to monitor your behavior, shutting down one of the most common avenues for data collection.
But why does Apple allow apps to request tracking in the first place? The answer lies in a broader debate about privacy and the digital economy. Many app developers rely on tracking to serve personalized ads and generate revenue. Apple’s approach, introduced with iOS 14.5, was to give users more transparency and control: apps must now ask for permission before tracking begins. It’s a move that privacy advocates have applauded, but it also puts the onus on users to make informed choices.
According to Khoa học và Đời sống, if you don’t restrict these permissions, you risk losing control over your data. “If tracking permissions are not limited, users risk losing control over their data, leading to annoying ads, scams, or sensitive information leaks,” the publication warns. The message is clear: leaving tracking enabled isn’t just a minor oversight—it could open the door to a range of privacy threats.
Of course, not all tracking is inherently malicious. Some apps use it to improve user experience or provide useful features. But as Sohas News points out, the danger lies in the sheer volume and sensitivity of the data that can be collected. Personal contacts, precise locations, and even your behavioral patterns can be pieced together to create a detailed profile. In the wrong hands, this information can be exploited for everything from targeted scams to identity theft.
It’s not just about what you do on your phone, either. With the rise of interconnected devices and services, a single breach can have ripple effects across your digital life. That’s why experts stress the importance of proactive privacy management. By disabling tracking requests, you’re not just protecting yourself from ads—you’re taking a stand against the broader commodification of your personal information.
Apple’s privacy controls have been praised for their simplicity and effectiveness. Still, as Sohas News observes, “not everyone knows how to take full advantage of these protections.” The company’s efforts are only as strong as the users’ understanding and willingness to use them. In a world where digital threats are constantly evolving, a little vigilance goes a long way.
For those worried about missing out on app functionality, there’s good news: most apps will continue to work just fine without tracking permissions. You might see fewer personalized ads, but you’ll gain peace of mind knowing your data isn’t being harvested behind your back. And if you ever change your mind, you can always revisit the settings and adjust your preferences.
As digital privacy becomes an increasingly hot topic, stories like these serve as a timely reminder that protecting your information is a shared responsibility. Tech companies can build the tools, but it’s up to users to wield them wisely. With just a few taps, you can take control of your digital footprint and shut the door on unwanted snooping.
In the end, the message from Khoa học và Đời sống and Sohas News is straightforward: don’t wait until it’s too late. Take a moment to check your iPhone’s privacy settings today. It’s a small step that could make a world of difference in keeping your personal information safe from unwanted eyes.