eBuddy
eBuddy is an online service that enables users to log into their instant messaging access from a web browser or mobile phone using Java . eBuddy enables access to Windows Live Messenger , Yahoo Messenger , AOL Instant Messenger , Google Talk , ICQ , Facebook Messenger and the Myspace messenger .
The eBuddy system is constantly being expanded and three new versions have recently appeared. eBuddy also works behind a proxy and a firewall because it only works via HTTP port 80.
There are also applications for Android , Symbian and iPhone .
In 2010 eBuddy had over 100 million users worldwide.
Differences to the software
Since eBuddy logs into the IM access using a browser, a few drawbacks must be expected compared to the installable programs. Neither webcam calls via eBuddy nor the flash emoticons common with ICQ and Windows Live Messenger work .
Data protection aspects
The service started in 2003 under the name e-Messenger and was renamed eBuddy in 2006 . The owner is Prime Technology Ventures and Lowland Capital Partners, based in Amsterdam. According to eBuddy-Privacy, the user accepts the use of the service on the basis of Dutch law, so the German data protection law does not apply. The service provider stores personal data such as the Facebook user ID including password and the stored mail access data for MSN, AIM and Googletalk etc., but also online status information, telephone numbers and address book information (including the mail addresses of the messaging contact partners), the age and gender of the user, etc. Transferred content (e.g. messenger messages) is cached. In addition, technical information such as IP address, browser type, etc. are stored. The provider only accepts limited responsibility for this stored personal data. Contrary to the German data protection law, for example, the user expressly agrees that personal data may be stored on servers outside the EU. The user consents to the use of his data to create targeted advertising. When using eBuddy XMS, a copy of the complete address book is sent to the provider. The content of the address book is also used to suggest contacts to other users. The eBuddy provider states that they intend to disclose the personal data under various circumstances, e.g. B. if he is of the opinion that this is his legal obligation, or if it can protect his property. eBuddy integrates content (advertisements) from third-party providers and enables these third-party providers to determine the user's IP address.
In particular, there are risks that various sensitive personal data are left to a foreign company. This data can be concentrated anywhere in the world, specifically outside the EU. This means that there is no longer any control over the protection of this data. The German data protection law does not apply. In the event of a dispute, Dutch law applies. In the event of a hack attack on the database, the user's online identity is compromised on all online platforms and mail providers used at the same time.
Web links
Individual evidence
- ↑ Peter Thiessen, Stephen Hockema: WAI-ARIA Live Regions: EBuddy IM As a Case Example . In: Proceedings of the 2010 International Cross Disciplinary Conference on Web Accessibility (W4A) (= W4A '10 ). ACM, New York, NY, USA 2010, ISBN 978-1-4503-0045-2 , pp. 33: 1-33: 9 , doi : 10.1145 / 1805986.1806030 .