Guide: Everything about retrieving and managing your privacy-sensitive Apple data

Apple dataFrom now on, Apple makes it very easy to see what personal information the company collects and collects about you. Is that worth it? What information is this exactly and how do you request it? We show how it works.

This way you can request a copy of all your Apple data

The European privacy legislation GDPR ensures that users of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other services, among others, can request a file containing all data that the company has collected about them. Apple must also comply with these regulations. This is all you need to know about the GDPR:

  1. Why does Apple make this data transparent?
  2. Why should I download and view this data?
  3. How do I download this copy of my collected data?
  4. What can I do after seeing this data?apple data download

1. Why is Apple now making this data transparent?

The European GDPR rules came into force in 2018. Because all major companies have to comply with this, Apple has also created a Data and Privacy website. The new legislation obliges companies to be more transparent with regard to collect user data. This can be done by explaining in advance what your data is used for, or by giving users the option to view all this data at any time.

This should make it easier for you as a user to remain in charge of your personal data. This also prevents companies from fooling you with difficult words and long forms.

2. Why should I download and view this data?

Although it is not mandatory to download your data, it does provide valuable insights into how Apple treats your data. With the push of a button, you can view all data associated with your Apple ID. These include contacts, calendar appointments, notes, photos, documents, e-mails, and PDF files.

That gives you clarity about the amount of data that the Cupertino company stores about you. You can then draw a conclusion based on this whether you find this acceptable or not. Even if you are not worried about your privacy, it is worthwhile to browse through your data once.apple data download

3. How do I download a copy of my collected data?

Retrieving and downloading this data is easy thanks to the new Apple website. Go through the steps below to request a copy of your data.

  1. Go to privacy.apple.com on your Mac;
  2. Log in with your Apple ID;
  3. In the next window, click on ‘Get Started’ under the heading ‘Request a copy of your data’;
  4. Check all parts of the list for which you want to view the data;
  5. After making your selection, click on ‘Continue’;
  6. Choose a maximum file size between 1GB and 25GB;
  7. Select ‘Complete request’ to complete the request.

When choosing the maximum file size, take your internet speed into account. It can happen that your total data package is larger than 25GB, and Apple will, therefore, send several emails to make all data available. The collection and transmission of this data can take up to seven days. Apple itself sends you a download link by email. The status of your application can be checked via privacy.apple.com/account.apple data download

4. What can I do after seeing this data?

If you have received and read the data file, then it is up to you to draw a conclusion from this. If you think it’s fine that Apple has this information, then you don’t have to do anything. If you come across data that is incorrect, you can pass it on to Apple’s Data and Privacy website so that it is updated.

However, if you come to the conclusion that Apple damages your privacy too much, it is now easier than ever to deactivate your account or delete it completely. In both cases, you do this via the privacy dashboard of privacy.apple.com. The difference between deactivation and removal is as follows.

Deactivate account: Select this to temporarily deactivate your account. This means that you can no longer use your account or Apple services, but your data is not yet permanently deleted. This option is useful if in doubt, but not yet sure if you want to stop using your Apple ID completely.

Delete account: Are you sure you want to delete your Apple ID and all data associated with it, then choose this option. All your data connected to Apple’s services will be permanently deleted as of a result. You cannot undo this process.

After reading this guide, are you curious about the data that other apps collect about you? Then read the tips below.

2 thoughts on “Guide: Everything about retrieving and managing your privacy-sensitive Apple data”

  1. Does your blog have a contact page? I’m having trouble locating it but, I’d like to send you an e-mail. I’ve got
    some recommendations for your blog you might be interested in hearing.

    Either way, great site and I look forward to seeing it develop over time.

    Reply
  2. It’s best to take part in a contest for probably the greatest blogs on the web. I’ll recommend this web site!

    Reply

Leave a Comment