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Wednesday, June 02, 2021

Virus Alert Apps Had Limited Success

 Having followed some of the Virus tracking software, found this to be insightful.  Though late.   Fundamentally the approaches won't work without elements of privacy being violated,  limiting participation and having the potential of misuse.  Bottom line,  the data gathered will be wrong. 

Why Apple, Google Virus Alert Apps Had Limited Success

The New York Times, Natasha Singer, May 27, 2021

Apple and Google's smartphone-based virus alert application has not been the game-changer that the collaboration suggested, with some researchers claiming the product and policy choices made by the companies have constrained its utility. The app uses Bluetooth signals to detect users coming into close contact with those who later test positive for the coronavirus; it then anonymously alerts others with whom they may have crossed paths. Computer scientists have cited accuracy problems with the proximity-detecting Bluetooth technology, while some users have cited failed notifications. The University of Minnesota's Michael T. Osterholm said the software's privacy features, designed to bar government agencies from identifying app users, have complicated research to determine whether the alerts helped to impede virus transmission.

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