Pokemon Go: UFC-Que Choisir in France condemns mind-blowing exploitation of personal data

Pokemon Go is now officially available in France on Android and iOS. That’s why the UFC-Que Choisir association has decided to give some advice to users before they take the plunge. Because according to the consumer association, Pokemon Go hides its gameplay well on several levels if it’s fun and original.

First, UFC-Que Choisir states that even if the game is free, it includes in-app purchases between €0.99 and €99.99. Pokemon Go is also geared towards kids (okay, we tested Pokemon Go as well), so parents are advised to be very careful with automatic payments.

In addition, the association joins forces with the authorities who multiply the warning messages on the roads and streets. Users consumed by the game are less alert and therefore more exposed to both accidents and theft of their smartphones. And that’s not to mention the management of totally crazy crowds as we can see in Central Park.

Also, UFC-Que Choisir warns users about their data usage. Pokemon Go is a game that requires permanent connection as well as movement. Therefore, it relies on the mobile network. We also know that the cost of data outside the package tends to increase rapidly.

If all this advice has already been heard, UFC-Que Choisir has touched on an extremely important point for users: exploitation of data. According to the association it is very simple Amount of data recovered by Pokemon Go impressive even before playing: email addresses, last name, first name, age, phone number and IP address or smartphone ID number.

• Also read: The complete Pokemon Go guide to become the best trainer

Of course, location data is also included. more worrying, Nintendo reserves the right to use all photos It is picked up by the game when you catch Pokemon or at any time. Yes, this goes too far.