Saudi Arabia: App used to track women ‘not against’ Google rules

Google has remained silent over reports it told a US
congresswoman that a controversial app was not in breach of its
terms and conditions.

Saudi app Absher can be used by men to track women and prevent
them from travelling.

The office of Jackie Speier confirmed that a verbal conversation
took place with Google after she co-wrote a letter of complaint
about the app.

Google declined to comment.

Absher is currently available on both Apple and Google’s app
stores.

The app, which also offers access to government services, has
been criticised by human rights groups.

Saudi women need the permission of a male guardian, usually
their husband or father, to leave the country.