A new controversy has erupted over Samsung’s budget smartphones after cybersecurity researchers alleged that certain Galaxy A and M series models ship with “unremovable spyware.” The claims resurfaced when the International Cyber Digest posted on X about a hidden application called AppCloud, accusing Samsung of bundling “unremovable Israeli spyware” on devices sold across West Asia and North Africa.
The concerns trace back to May, when digital rights group SMEX issued an open letter accusing Samsung of embedding AppCloud as deeply integrated bloatware. SMEX reported that the software—developed by Israeli firm ironSource—collects sensitive data such as biometrics and IP addresses, runs silently in the background, and requires root access to remove, which voids the warranty.
Samsung partnered with ironSource in 2022, expanding the relationship after ironSource was acquired by Unity Technologies. Reports suggest AppCloud leverages ironSource’s Install Core technology, which has previously been linked to installing software without user consent.
Although the app is hidden from the home screen, users say it can access network connections, download files autonomously, and reactivate after system updates—even when disabled through the app list.
This is not Samsung’s first privacy dispute; past controversies include smart TVs capable of transmitting voice data. The larger issue, researchers warn, is that budget phone users continue to face pre-installed software with potential security risks—despite deserving the same privacy protections as premium device owners.
See What’s Next in Tech With the Fast Forward Newsletter
Tweets From @varindiamag
Nothing to see here - yet
When they Tweet, their Tweets will show up here.
