Amazon faces class action for covert geolocation tracking through third-party mobile apps
Amazon faces a lawsuit for collecting geolocation data without consent via the Amazon Ads SDK.

Amazon is now confronted with a class action lawsuit alleging it covertly collected and sold sensitive geolocation data via its Amazon Ads SDK. Filed by Felix Kolotinsky in the US District Court, the suit claims Amazon distributed this SDK to app developers, which allowed it to access users' geolocation data without consent. Such data reportedly includes information on consumer locations, shopping habits, and possible private affiliations.
Kolotinsky specifically mentions that Amazon accessed his private data through the 'Speedtest by Ookla' app. The complaint argues this could expose critical personal details, like religious views or health conditions, which were then allegedly used to build advertising profiles. The actions are said to violate California's penal code, which prohibits unauthorized access to computer systems.
This lawsuit parallels previous cases involving other tech companies and insurance firms using SDKs for similar data-harvesting tactics. Notable instances include a 2023 settlement where Amazon paid $31 million for privacy breaches with Alexa and Ring. Seeking damages and a halt to such data collection, Kolotinsky v. Amazon.com Inc. is pursuing compensation for the affected residents of California.