Freedom Phone ‘uncensored’ raises a host of security questions

A new “freedom of speech and privacy first” phone unveiled this week raises red flags, with a report suggesting it is simply a rebranding of a low-budget Chinese phone.

The $ 500 Freedom Phone was launched Wednesday by self-proclaimed “bitcoin millionaire” Erik Finman, as an alternative to popular devices from Google, Apple and other Big Tech companies. The Freedom Phone’s website does not contain the usual technical specifications, but states that the gadget works with all major US carriers and is supported by an “uncensored” app store.

The phone apparently runs FreedomOS, an operating system that Finman said in a tweet was “our own mix of AOSP, LineageOS, GrapheneOS, as well as our personal development.” All three operating systems are based on Google’s Android operating system, which powers nearly nine out of 10 smartphones worldwide.

While people may understandably be drawn to a phone that prioritizes privacy and free speech, several reports have raised security concerns and questioned whether the Freedom Phone is being candid with customers.

The Freedom Phone appears to be a new image of the Umidigi A9 Pro, a roughly $ 120 phone made by Chinese tech company Umidigi, according to a report released Thursday by The Daily Beast. Finman reportedly confirmed to the Daily Beast that the Freedom Phone is made by Umidigi but did not say what model it was based on.

Finman didn’t explain to the Daily Beast how the Freedom Phone justified its apparent markup, but reportedly suggested it features custom hardware and improved memory.

There are also concerns about phone security. Finman reportedly confirmed to the Daily Beast that Freedom OS is based on Google’s Android operating system, but custom versions come with risks as they might not get the latest patches and security updates. The Freedom Phone’s website also didn’t explain how it plans to keep malicious apps out of its “uncensored app store,” dubbed PatriApp.

Freedom Phone and Finman did not immediately respond to requests for additional information.