Data Privacy Concerns: What Users Should Know About Infinix, OnePlus, and Other Smartphone Brands
In the digital age, protecting your personal information has become more important than ever—especially when it comes to smartphones, which store everything from private messages and photos to sensitive work data.
While many smartphone manufacturers emphasize security, some brands have faced recurring privacy concerns, particularly Infinix and OnePlus, two popular names in emerging markets. Here’s a closer look at the background, risks, and steps you can take to safeguard your data.
🔒🛑 Infinix: Security Issues and User Concerns
Infinix, a subsidiary of Transsion Holdings, has gained popularity for offering affordable smartphones with attractive features. However, several past reports have raised concerns over its software security practices.
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In 2020, a security report by mobile protection firm Secure-D revealed that certain devices from Transsion were shipping with pre-installed malware, such as xHelper and Triada, which could subscribe users to paid services in the background—without their knowledge.
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In 2024, additional vulnerabilities were discovered:
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One flaw allowed apps to remotely trigger a factory reset.
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Another issue involved location data exposure through a misconfigured weather application.
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These incidents have prompted scrutiny from cybersecurity agencies, especially in countries like India, which labeled Infinix a “high-risk” vendor in 2025.
Despite growing user concerns, public statements or comprehensive fixes from the company have been limited, raising questions about long-term user protection.
⚠️ OnePlus: Past Data Collection & Privacy Debates
OnePlus, once praised for disrupting the smartphone market with high-spec devices at lower prices, has also come under the spotlight for data privacy issues:
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In 2017, reports emerged that the brand was collecting user data, including device identifiers and app usage statistics, without proper consent.
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The discovery of an internal diagnostic tool called EngineerMode—which potentially allowed root access—raised additional concerns among privacy advocates.
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In 2025, U.S. lawmakers formally requested an investigation into whether OnePlus devices were transmitting data to overseas servers, although the company denied any wrongdoing and no formal findings have been announced.
In addition, data breaches in 2018 and 2019 exposed personal information of OnePlus customers, further reinforcing the importance of transparency and user data protection.
🧩 ZTE: Regulatory Challenges and Restrictions
While not frequently linked to direct privacy violations, ZTE, another Chinese smartphone brand, has faced international scrutiny over potential national security risks. It was added to the U.S. Entity List in 2018, limiting its ability to operate in Western markets due to alleged ties with unauthorized surveillance activities.
📱 Should Smartphone Users Be Concerned?
Yes, especially for users who handle sensitive content, whether personal or professional. While no single incident confirms malicious intent, the pattern of security vulnerabilities, limited transparency, and delayed updates should be taken seriously.
✅ Best Practices for Protecting Your Smartphone Privacy
To minimize risk, consider the following:
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🔐 Choose trusted brands with proven data protection track records, such as Apple, Google Pixel, or Samsung.
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📲 Keep your device updated with the latest software and security patches.
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📥 Install apps only from official sources like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
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🗑️ Remove or disable bloatware, especially apps you don’t use or don’t recognize.
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🧠 If you’re tech-savvy, consider using custom ROMs that prioritize security and privacy.
Your data is your responsibility, and making informed choices about which smartphone to use can go a long way in protecting your digital life.
