In order to protect the consumers, six major technology companies have agreed to a uniform privacy protocol for mobile applications.  Apple, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, RIM, and HP have agreed on a law for a requirement of privacy policy with apps that collect personal user information.

“Smart phones are everywhere and are rich in data,…, There are apps that once downloaded by the consumer, will also download the consumer’s contact book. I’d suggest most consumers don’t know that’s happening and don’t want it happening.”  Kamala Harris, California Attorney General

The agreement with the above companies ensures mobile apps compliance with the California Online Privacy Protection Act, which requires online service operators to “conspicuously post a privacy policy.”

This agreement gives the users, of smartphones, tablets, and mobile devices, an option to review privacy policy before downloading the application.  The app developers can be prosecuted under the consumer protection laws in the event of noncompliance.

Source: Bloomberg via PhoneArena