EAGLE SCOUT | ISSUE NO. 25-05

NEWS | Parents or Privacy? The ongoing debate re: monitoring kids’ phones

4 Mar 2025

UNITED STATES - Smartphones have changed how kids interact with the world, but they also bring risks like cyberbullying and inappropriate content. Though many parents feel the need to monitor their child’s phone use, this raises questions about privacy and trust. Legally, parents in many places can check their child’s phone, but the debate continues as technology grows. READ MORE

NEWS | UK investigates TikTok, Reddit on kids’ data safety

4 Mar 2025

UNITED KINGDOM - The UK’s privacy watchdog is looking into how TikTok, Reddit, and Imgur handle kids’ personal data. They are checking if these apps protect teens properly and if they are doing enough to verify users’ ages. The concern is that their content suggestions might expose kids to harmful materials. READ MORE

NEWS | Google starts tracking Android users before any apps are opened

4 Mar 2025

GLOBAL - A new study has shown that Android phones start tracking users even before they open any app. Tracking tools like cookies and device IDs are added without asking for user permission, with users also unable to opt out. These trackers send data to Google through pre-installed apps like Google Play Services. READ MORE

NEWS | GCash teams up with NPC to raise data privacy awareness

13 Mar 2025

PHILIPPINES  – The National Privacy Commission has teamed up with GCash to help more Filipinos learn about data privacy. The plan is to add easy-to-understand privacy tips and educational materials inside the GCash app. This move hopes to teach users how to protect their personal information and understand their rights under the Data Privacy Act. READ MORE

NEWS| Globe urges creation of official ID database to fight text scams

4 Mar 2025

PHILIPPINES - Globe Telecom is calling for an official ID database in order to verify SIM card users and stop text scams. While they follow the SIM Registration Act and use tools like ID scanning and selfies, they are still unable fully confirm if a user’s identity is real. Globe believes that a national ID system would help prevent fake accounts. READ MORE