Gurugram’s gated communities have been embracing digital security apps that track everything from visitors to domestic workers. While these gate apps promise safety and convenience, they are raising serious concerns about privacy. One such story from DLF Phase 3 towers highlights the tension between security and privacy in these digitally-driven societies.
When Privacy Became a Concern
Sanjay Lal, a resident of the DLF Phase 3 towers, recalls a moment of discomfort when neighbors started asking about the visitors to his home. Lal realized that his society’s security app was logging every entry and exit, and somehow, his neighbors were finding out who was coming and going. This began when Lal received more visitors due to his political campaign, after filing his nomination as an independent candidate for the Haryana Assembly elections. Lal said,
“It made me so uncomfortable. It was last year, and I had just filed my nomination as an independent candidate for the Haryana Assembly elections. People from all walks of life would come to meet me. The information was only with the society manager and the guards, so how did neighbors get to know?”
Rise of Security Management Apps
This experience made Lal realize the extent to which security management apps like MyGate, NoBrokerhood, and ADDA Gatekeeper were transforming how communities functioned. These apps track who enters and exits, manage access to facilities like gyms, and even log the income of service providers like yoga instructors and grocery shops. Some apps even record biometric data of domestic workers.
During the pandemic, these apps were used to track Covid-positive residents and visitors. These apps are about much more than just security; they are increasingly about community, commerce, and convenience. But the growing use of these apps has raised concerns about privacy.
Privacy Concerns of Gate Apps
Privacy experts, including the Internet Freedom Foundation, have raised alarms about the privacy risks these apps present. They warn that these platforms might be infringing on residents’ privacy and exposing personal data. Many users have reported a rise in spam calls after using these apps and have expressed concerns over constant surveillance. Lal who suspects his visitor data was leaked to neighbors said,
“The cost is privacy. The call (to use these apps) has to be made by the residents themselves.”
Security vs. Privacy
While some residents are concerned about privacy breaches, others see the benefits of these apps. For example, Poonam Sood, a retired professional, says the app has made her feel safer, especially as a woman. Said Sood,
“From a woman’s perspective, I no longer have to worry about my safety. The notification comes straight to my phone, and I can approve or deny entry instantly. Even if I’m at work or travelling out of town, I still have complete control.”
For 65-year-old ex-cricketer Meena Ayri, the app brings peace of mind as she can track her domestic workers’ movements without having to call the guards. Ayri said,
“You already know who’s coming, you’ve shared the QR code with them in advance. There’s a sense of convenience — no unexpected visitors, no constant ringing of the doorbell. Mentally, you feel free and secure because you’re prepared.”
However, Lal is running a campaign against these apps. Furthermore, he has raised concerns about their privacy implications and has even called for a boycott of app-based security systems.
Makers Defend Their Gate Apps
Abhishek Kumar, co-founder and CEO of MyGate, strongly defends the security management apps, insisting that they are secure and protect residents’ data. According to him, the data belongs to the Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), not the app providers. Kumar said,
“Let me be clear: we are not the custodians of the data. The data belongs to the RWAs and is stored in AWS cloud servers. For us, residents’ data is sacrosanct,”
But Lal remains unconvinced, claiming that these apps do more harm than good. He believes that the apps could be a potential source for cyber criminals and that they put too much personal information at risk.
Should We Sacrifice Privacy for Convenience?
As the debate intensifies, Lt Gen AS Bajwa, the president of the RWA, finds himself caught between two opposing views. One camp argues that the data collected—such as names, phone numbers, and photographs—is commonly shared with banks and telecom companies. The other side raises concerns about overreach and the digital vulnerability of residents, especially with so much data stored in one place.
In response, Bajwa has reached out to MyGate for clarification. He said,
“They told me they have numerous societies in Gurugram using the app.”
For now, He has requested two weeks to understand how the system works and hold regular meetings with residents.
From Security to Maid Reviews
The story of digital security management in India’s high-rise buildings began in 2016 when the co-founders of MyGate started pitching their app to communities in Bengaluru. What started as a simple idea has grown into a full-fledged business, serving over 25,000 communities across India.
Today, these apps serve not just as security tools but as platforms for community engagement and commerce. MyGate has expanded into a virtual gathering space where neighbors can post about available house help, sell used appliances, and even advertise Zumba lessons. It has even become an informal job board for domestic workers, complete with one-sided reviews.
However, the ease of convenience comes with privacy implications, as photographs are clicked without consent and IDs are scanned, often without any alternatives being offered. Nikhil Pahwa, a digital rights activist said,
“Photographs are clicked without consent. IDs are scanned. And most people don’t want the cognitive overload of asking for an alternative method. It’s the same way people keep giving away their Aadhaar number and card everywhere they go.”
Growing Competition Among Apps
As these apps grow, so does the rivalry. In 2020, MyGate and NoBrokerhood accused each other of stealing proprietary customer data. The allegations revealed how vulnerable customer data had become amidst competition between India’s top security management apps. Gupta and Kumar, however, declined to comment on the incident. Gupta said,
“That was a complaint. It has settled. We have been directed by the court not to talk about it.”
Meanwhile, privacy experts continue to voice concerns about the implications of these apps and the growing digital vulnerability of residents.
Also Read: India’s Struggle with Privacy and Transparency in the Digital Age