There is nothing sinister about this, other than Apple including something few want. iPhone included this tracker about three updates back and it can be disabled.
In iOS 13.6.1 and earlier
Head to Settings on your iPhone
Swipe down and tap Privacy
Now choose Health
Tap COVID-19 Exposure Logging at the top
You’ll need an authorized app before Exposure Notifications can be turned on. But then you can tap the toggle to turn notifications on or off
You can also delete the exposure logs manually at any time at the bottom of the settings
Follow along here for when apps from health authorities become available in the U.S.
roostercashews wrote: “There is nothing sinister about this, other than Apple including something few want. iPhone included this tracker about three updates back and it can be disabled.”
The problem is this: you download this app and it will communicate with other users who have also downloaded this app. Even if you turn off your notifications, others won’t and they can report your exposure to the authorities. IOW, you can’t really turn it off, just don’t download. I suspect that sooner or later health departments will ‘incentivize’ those downloads. In your best interest of course.
Thanks. Cogent and informative reply.