7 Cases
2 Countries

AppCloud

Samsung pre-installed software collecting user data. Developed by Israeli company ironSource.

What you should know

Collects IP addresses, device fingerprints, hardware details without consent.

Cannot be uninstalled without root access. Voids warranty.

Violates laws in Lebanon where Israeli companies are banned.

Pre-installed on Samsung A & M series globally, including WANA and Southeast Asia.

Confirmed affected models: Galaxy A-seriesGalaxy A13 (4G)Galaxy A52Galaxy A73Galaxy M52 5GGalaxy S23Galaxy S24 Ultra

What you can do

Check if you have AppCloud

Settings → Apps → Search "AppCloud"

Try to disable it

Settings → Apps → AppCloud → Disable

Revoke permissions

Settings → Apps → AppCloud → Permissions → Turn off all

Document it

Take screenshots and report to privacy authorities

Resources

Global Impact →

Countries where AppCloud presence has been confirmed on Samsung devices.

Found AppCloud on your Samsung device? Help expand this research.

Timeline

Netanyahu's cellphone statement

Netanyahu stated 'You're holding a piece of Israel right there' when referring to cellphones, highlighting Israeli tech presence in mobile devices.

#context#political

Technical details revealed

User @0bungler reveals AppCloud is on every Samsung phone post-2022, provides backdoor access, installs apps without permission, and cannot be deactivated or uninstalled.

#technical#backdoor

Samsung Community forum complaints emerge

Samsung users report AppCloud as unwanted adware that cannot be uninstalled. German user reveals AppCloud is a 'multi-purpose backdoor' that reappears after every system update, developed by ironSource in Tel Aviv.

#community#complaints#backdoor

SMEX publishes open letter to Samsung

Digital rights organization SMEX demands Samsung end forced AppCloud installations in WANA region. Calls for transparency, removal options, and meeting with Samsung teams. Highlights GDPR violations and Israeli company concerns.

#advocacy#legal#WANA#GDPR

Personal verification and investigation

Discovered the AppCloud posts, verified the app exists on wife's Samsung phone. Made Twitter post to raise awareness and began investigating Terms & Conditions, finding suspicious clauses.

#verification#investigation