A cybersecurity investigation has highlighted serious privacy concerns linked to proxy networks used in web scraping systems. The findings come from New research conducted by security experts who analyzed an iOS SDK connected to a major proxy service.
The study shows how consumer devices like smartphones and smart TVs may be used as hidden relay nodes. These devices help forward large volumes of web-scraping traffic, mainly for artificial intelligence systems.
According to the New research, the SDK is integrated into free apps that rely on an opt-in installation process. However, the study suggests that user awareness of the full data usage may be limited.
Researchers found that the system routes traffic through home internet connections. This means residential IP addresses are used instead of traditional data center servers. The New research explains that this method helps bypass anti-bot detection systems used by major platforms.
Security analysts also discovered that the peer communication channel lacks strong authentication controls. This creates a situation where background traffic can continue without clear user visibility or monitoring.
On iOS devices, the New research shows that proxy traffic may bypass VPN settings and remain active in the background. This continues until battery levels drop significantly or the app is manually stopped.
The study also highlights a gap between user consent messages and actual system behavior. Some apps claim limited usage, but the SDK may allow up to 200 GB of monthly proxy traffic per device.
Experts say this model has grown rapidly with the rise of artificial intelligence systems. As companies block data center IP addresses, residential networks are increasingly used to collect public web data at scale.
The New research also notes that major tech platforms have begun restricting such background proxy SDKs. However, support still exists on some smart TV operating systems, including certain consumer device ecosystems.
Cybersecurity specialists recommend stronger safeguards for users. Tools such as router-level filters and DNS blockers can help prevent devices from joining hidden proxy networks.
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Overall, the New research raises important questions about digital privacy, consent transparency, and how everyday devices are being used in large-scale data collection systems.
