Viral Call-Recording App Neon Goes Dark After Exposing Users’ Phone Numbers, Call Recordings, And Transcripts
A viral sensation turned privacy nightmare: Viral call-recording app Neon goes dark after exposing users’ phone numbers, call recordings, and transcripts in a major security lapse. The app, which promised to pay people for sharing their call data with AI companies, skyrocketed to the top of Apple’s App Store before abruptly shutting down.
Neon’s Rapid Rise To Popularity
Launched just a week ago, Neon quickly became one of the top-five free iPhone apps. It drew attention by offering users money in exchange for their recorded phone calls. Those recordings, in turn, were marketed as training data for AI models.
The app’s viral success was clear—Appfigures reported over 75,000 downloads in a single day. With thousands already using it, Neon looked poised to redefine how consumers trade their personal data for profit.
The Security Flaw That Brought Neon Down
That momentum ended abruptly. During a short test, TechCrunch discovered a major security flaw that allowed anyone to access users’ phone numbers, call recordings, and transcripts. This vulnerability meant private conversations were exposed to strangers, with no safeguards in place.
After being alerted, Neon’s founder, Alex Kiam, quickly pulled the app offline and paused its servers. However, while Kiam notified users that the app was paused, he reportedly did not disclose the full extent of the security breach.
Users Left In The Dark
The Neon app stopped working soon after the flaw was reported. But thousands of users who signed up remain concerned about where their data went—and whether their private conversations are now circulating online.
This incident underscores the risks of viral apps that prioritize growth over security. While Neon promised easy money and AI-powered innovation, its downfall highlights the price of ignoring user privacy.
What This Means For Users
If you downloaded Neon, it’s wise to assume your phone numbers, call recordings, and transcripts may have been exposed. Experts recommend updating account passwords, monitoring suspicious activity, and being cautious about sharing sensitive data with unproven apps.
The rise and fall of Neon shows how quickly viral apps can turn dangerous. As AI companies chase data, users should remain skeptical about platforms that trade privacy for profit.
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