Global music streaming service Spotify is being attacked for its new privacy policy that automatically came into effect this week.

In particular, section 3.3 and 3.4 of the new policy, detailing how the app will collect a lot more of users personal data.

Essentially, your photos, contacts, GPS location and even voice memos have now become fair game for Spotify to gather.  

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Spotify will even track and record how fast you are running, walking or moving.

Named the “Information we collect” area of the policy, the significantly beefed-up measures have signalled concern for many on the internet.

“We may also collect sensor data (e.g., data about the speed of your movements, such as whether you are running, walking, or in transit),” is said.

The old policy is only eight lines long. The length of the new one significantly dwarfs its predecessor.

There are many theories as to why the service has taken the measure to expand its data gathering capabilities. Forbes magazine suggest it may be because of the launch of Apple Music.

Spotify sees the launch as a threat to its virtual monopoly on the streaming market, and experts believe it simply wants to stay ahead of the game.

Tech-website Gizmodo described the policy as “atrocious”.

In a statement to the website, Spotify said: “Spotify is constantly innovating and evolving its service to deliver the best possible experience for our users.

“This means delivering the perfect recommendations for every moment, and helping you to enjoy, discover and share more music than ever before.

“Throughout, the privacy and security of our customers’ data is – and will remain – Spotify’s highest priority.”

Whatever that reason may be, many are reacting to the changes angrily, with some even threatening to cancel their subscriptions. 

Just cancelled my @Spotify account because of their new #privacy policy. Haven’t heard about it? Take a peek: http://t.co/O0GUpKGV6b

— Josh Langley (@JoshRLangley) August 20, 2015

Just cancelled @Spotify over their privacy policy changes. Sending what I would’ve paid them for the next 6 months to @SomaFm instead.

— Insensateezy (@glibertas) August 20, 2015