Smartphones, tablets, new devices and mobile technologies are on the rise, and are already an essential component of our daily lives in Europe and many other parts of the world, as are the apps which run on them. The mobile sector comprises all industry players providing mobile technologies, devices, apps and services in this context.

The following data protection issues, among others, arise in view of the large quantity of data which is collected through the use of mobile devices:

• Is user tracking carried out in a manner which complies with data protection legislation?
• What difference do mobile identification numbers, such as the IDFA or the Google advertising ID, make?
• Is providing users with the possibility of opting out of the collection of their data a matter for the manufacturers of such devices (e.g. the iPhone) or is it the responsibility of the provider of the mobile product in question?
• How are new technologies, e.g. z.B. beacons, to be used in a manner which complies with the relevant regulations, and what guidelines must providers adhere to?
• Is the SDK being used or offered for sale non-hazardous?
• Is the communication between the mobile product and any servers adequately protected?
• How can I, as a provider of a mobile application or a mobile network, secure the data within my company?

Does the developer take these aspects into account? As has been confirmed by numerous studies, many apps use user data and pass personal data on to the operator of the app or even third parties such as ad servers, private individuals or other companies. Data protection issues are therefore gaining in relevance, quite irrespective of whether the apps in question are for use on smartphones, tablets, clocks or other linked-up devices.

Many users are concerned about the possibility of providers misusing their data or disseminating information to third parties. There is increasing demand for professional certification on the part of users and also providers looking to verify the status of data protection and data security within an app and thereby build confidence in that app.

• Mobile products can from the outset be developed in such a manner as to ensure their compliance with currently applicable legislation ("privacy by design")
• The need for any subsequent amendments in line with data protection and data security regulations can be dispensed with
• Data breaches and the associated subsequent financial losses and loss of reputation can be avoided
• Connected car providers become familiar with any technical flaws in their products with regard to data protection and data security and are able to rectify these before any critical data leaks occur
• Obtaining certification for a mobile product demonstrates your commitment to data protection as a means of building trust