Apple’s Siri Under Investigation in France
- French prosecutors are examining claims that Siri recorded and analyzed user conversations without consent, following a formal complaint.
French authorities have launched a criminal investigation into Apple’s voice assistant Siri, following allegations of unauthorized data collection. The complaint was filed by the Ligue des Droits de l’Homme (LDH), a French human rights organization, and originated from tech researcher Thomas Le Bonniec. Prosecutors in Paris confirmed the case has been handed over to a cybercrime unit, though they declined to share further details. The inquiry centers on whether Siri recorded and analyzed user interactions without explicit permission.
Allegations and Legal Context
According to Le Bonniec, the complaint accuses Apple of collecting voice data through Siri without informing users or obtaining their consent. LDH previously stated that the practice involved recording and analyzing conversations, raising concerns about privacy violations. Apple responded by referencing its updated privacy policies, noting that Siri data is not sold to advertisers or shared with marketers. The company claims to have strengthened privacy controls in 2019 and again in 2025.
The investigation reflects growing scrutiny of voice assistants and their data handling practices. Legal experts suggest that if the claims are substantiated, Apple could face penalties under European data protection laws. France has been active in enforcing GDPR regulations, particularly in cases involving large tech firms. The outcome may influence how voice technologies are regulated across the EU.
Siri’s Data Practices and Public Response
Apple maintains that Siri interactions are processed securely and that users can opt out of data sharing. A January post on Apple’s website reiterated that voice recordings are not used for advertising purposes. Critics argue that transparency around voice assistant data usage remains limited, especially regarding how long recordings are stored and who can access them. The case has reignited debate over the balance between convenience and privacy in AI-powered consumer tools.
Le Bonniec, who previously raised concerns about Siri’s data practices in 2019, welcomed the investigation as a step toward accountability. He emphasized that fundamental rights must be protected, particularly when technology becomes deeply embedded in daily life. LDH has not issued further comment since the probe was announced. Public reaction has been mixed, with some users expressing concern and others defending Apple’s privacy record.
Voice Assistant Oversight Is Increasing Globally
This investigation is part of a broader trend of regulatory attention toward voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. In recent years, several countries have examined how these systems handle user data, especially in relation to consent and transparency. Germany and the Netherlands have previously investigated similar issues, leading to policy changes and fines. As voice interfaces become more common, legal frameworks are evolving to address their unique privacy challenges.
