Forget the NSA. The real threat to web privacy could turn out to be you, if you decide to download a new app called CrowdPilot.

What does it do?

It allows the user to let others in their social network “eavesdrop” on phone calls with the goal of getting “crowdsourced” advice. This can only lead to disaster.

According to the app’s FAQ on Apple’s App Store, “Crowdpilot lets you crowdsource your social interactions by bringing a group of your friends or strangers along to listen in and assist you in any situation. Whenever you need help, turn it on to stream your conversation to the web where the anonymous crowd – optionally supported by a team of your Facebook friends – will tune in, follow along and assist you. Or become a crowdpilot yourself, and watch and direct others!”

Sounds pretty chipper for the demise of phone privacy as we know it.

Actually, the app does have some social value. It allows “experts” in your social circle to listen in on conversations you have with others, motivated by the chance they might have some good advice.

But, seriously, what are the chances of that when it comes to romance, career choices or whether or not you’re being ripped off by a used car salesman?

The developer of CrowdPilot, Lauren McCarthy, claims the app was created as a social experiment, and that she doesn’t profit from the 99 cent fee.

“Will it make us more connected or turn us into total robots?” asks McCarthy. “We’re trying to make people directly confront these questions. Maybe you’ll think it’s terrifying. Or maybe you’ll find it’s actually kind of wonderful and fun.”

It doesn’t seem likely. It’s more possible that CrowdPilot will be used in a way to make fun of unsuspecting acquaintances (and strangers) who would be mortified to realize their conversations were being eavesdropped on. That’s just the crowd mentality.