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French lawmakers on Wednesday start debating a government-backed cellphone app that will alert users if they have been in contact with a person infected by the coronavirus.
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The StopCovid app — use of which will remain voluntary — is designed to keep track of users who have been in close proximity over a two-week period. If any become infected, they inform the platform, which alerts the others.
Privacy defenders have expressed fears that the app marks the first step towards a society under constant online surveillance.
But Frances CNIL watchdog, which gave provisional approval for StopCovid in April, said Tuesday that the app met the legal requirements for privacy protection, with ample safeguards to prevent abuse.
It nevertheless made a number of recommendations to make it even safer, including improving the quality of information provided to users, allowing users to object to information shared, and providing an option for erasing stored data.
The app will not rely on geolocation, but instead use Bluetooth technology which allows mobile phones to communicate with each other over short distances.
If the French parliament gives its approval, StopCovid could be available in app stores from this weekend.
France started reemerging on May 11 from a two-month lockdown to curb coronavirus spread. Public transport has resumed, though many people are still working from home and most schools have yet to reopen.
Bars, restaurants and public parks remain shuttered.
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