Is Zepeto tracking you? Rumors lead to users deleting app

Update (November 29):

We dug up Zepeto’s official terms and conditions to highlight stuff that you should know about the app. Interested? Head here.

Update (November 28):

Zepeto developer Snow Corporation has categorically refuted tracking/recording rumors. In a statement given to us, they even explained how the app uses device’s microphone. Details here.

Original story follows:

Zepeto, an app that lets you create a 3D avatar of your own (which can then be used in chat rooms) is currently in news, and sadly, not for any good reason. We are seeing a large number of users saying the app tracks or records its users.

https://twitter.com/emlrys/status/1067143608128671747

https://twitter.com/Fiestasalsass/status/1067515355659149316

https://twitter.com/currentlyAmir/status/1067231826513670144

https://twitter.com/typical_larass/status/1067394411821056000

https://twitter.com/charpemberton_x/status/1067427993159557120

Theory floating around in support of this rumor is that you can hear a static from your phone’s microphone when the app is being used.

https://twitter.com/Crimsoncum/status/1067359905345024001
https://twitter.com/awmyjosh/status/1067250483620806656
https://twitter.com/MUAmick/status/1067506694295441408
https://twitter.com/Natalia_Hansen/status/1067565782454943746

However, many users say this is not true, as such static noises are produced in case of many other apps as well. As for location tracking, several users have confirmed the app doesn’t even ask for location access.

https://twitter.com/seraqhic/status/1067227483739758593
https://twitter.com/ranlovemail/status/1067276359158910977
https://twitter.com/pent70061952/status/1067212421213954049
https://twitter.com/petitebubbles/status/1067454117898002432
https://twitter.com/evspresso_/status/1067279445310881792

So there you go. A lot of confusion, and as it stands, the rumor is spreading like a wildfire.

We couldn’t find any official word on the matter from the company behind the app. Rest assured, we’re actively tracking the situation, and will let you know as and when any newsworthy development takes place.

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