Privacy concerns over Apple’s Siri have led to a $95 million settlement after users discovered their private conversations were being recorded without consent. The December 2024 settlement awaits final approval in Oakland’s federal court.
“Some of those conversations included confidential medical information, drug deals and recordings of couples having sex,” a whistleblower told The Guardian in 2019, revealing how contractors regularly accessed private Siri recordings.
What Happened?
Users reported seeing targeted ads after private conversations. One user got medical treatment ads after discussing surgery with their doctor. Others saw Air Jordan shoe ads after mentioning them in conversation.
The Settlement
- Eligible: U.S. residents who owned Siri devices (September 2014 – December 2024)
- Payment: Up to $20 per device (maximum 5 devices, $100 total)
- Deadline: May 15, 2025
- Claims website launches: Within 45 days
Apple’s Response
“Apple continues to deny any and all alleged wrongdoing,” the company stated in court filings. They chose to settle rather than face costly litigation. For perspective, the $95 million settlement equals nine hours of Apple’s profits.
Similar Posts
Protecting Your Family
1. Check Siri Settings
- Open Settings > Siri & Search
- Turn off “Listen for Hey Siri”
- Disable “Press Side Button for Siri”
2. Control App Access
- Settings > Privacy > Microphone
- Review and disable access for unused apps
3. Manage Children’s Devices
- Set up parental controls
- Disable Siri on kids’ devices if concerned
Industry Impact
The case reveals broader privacy issues with voice assistants. A similar lawsuit against Google’s Voice Assistant is pending in San Jose federal court, suggesting widespread concerns about voice technology privacy.
“The desire to put profits over privacy is nothing new,” Apple CEO Tim Cook previously stated while criticizing other tech companies’ privacy practices. Now, Apple faces similar scrutiny.
Privacy Changes
After the 2019 revelations, Apple:
- Made Siri analytics opt-in only
- Stopped recording audio by default
- Paused contractor review program
For users concerned about privacy, experts recommend regularly reviewing device settings and being mindful of voice assistant activation. The settlement serves as a reminder that convenience features may come with hidden privacy costs.
Latest Update: Claims administrator estimates only 3-5% of eligible users will file claims, which could increase individual payment amounts.
