Do you know what apps do with your data? You might think that downloading apps is a harmless way to get useful features on your phone, but it puts your privacy at risk. may result in exposure to
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Many apps collect personal information and sell it to third parties without the user’s consent or knowledge. That’s exactly what Gabe, of Orlando, Fla., is concerned about. Here is the question he asked us.
“How do you determine and protect apps from stealing and selling your information?”
– Gabe, Orlando, Florida
This is a logical question given the growing number of cases of intrusive data practices. Well, Gabe, some apps may use your information to improve their services, provide personalized features, or comply with their legal obligations.
On the other hand, other apps may try to sell your personal information to advertisers for money. I know this seems invasive and I don’t want my information sold for someone else’s benefit.
woman holding a mobile phone ( )
How to protect your personal information
Check app permissions
When you download an app, you may see some pop-up prompts asking for permission to access certain features of your phone. These may include permissions to your location, photos, microphone, etc.
While some apps require permission for these features to work properly (i.e. the Uber app requests your location so drivers can find you), others No need to access every detail of your personal information.
You should only grant permissions that are necessary and comfortable for the app to function properly. You should also periodically review permissions and revoke permissions that are no longer needed or untrusted.
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Read Privacy Policy
Every app download comes with a long privacy policy, but most people avoid reading it because it looks gibberish. However, please take the time to read it as it contains the app’s terms of use that affect how you and your information is used.
Please do not download the app if it does not have a privacy policy. You want your app to be clear and open about what information you want from your users and how it will be used.
Download only what you absolutely need
I always have to be very selective about which apps I download and ask myself if this app is something I need and will I use often. Make sure any apps you download are from legitimate sources such as the Apple Store or Google Play Store.
Also, research its reputation, ratings, reviews and data practices before downloading or using any app.
Apps from third parties or unknown sources are usually apps that share information or contain malware and should be avoided at all costs.
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limit exposure
Delete unused or suspicious apps. You can also limit the amount of information you share with the app, including your name, email address, phone number, and social media accounts.
Create an alias email address
Sometimes it’s best to create an email alias when you sign up for a new app so you can protect your personal email from spam, phishing, or unwanted messages.
Ann email alias is another name or address that you can use to send and receive email without exposing your actual email account.
It also helps keep your inbox organized and secure, and you can easily remove or change aliases if you no longer need them or if they’ve been compromised.
woman looking at mobile phone ( )
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Update settings and software
should be done regularly Update device settings and software Make sure it’s secure and up to date. You should also check your app settings and permissions regularly and adjust them according to your preferences and needs. You should disable any features or options that you do not use or find distracting, such as location services, notifications, background data, etc.
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use a VPN
consider use a VPN Protects against prying eyes tracking you and identifying your potential location on the websites you visit. Depending on your privacy settings, many sites can read your IP address and may display the city you are communicating with. A VPN spoofs your IP address to show you a different location.
set a strong password
Using the same password on multiple platforms always increases your vulnerability because if one account is hacked, all of them are hacked. Be sure to use it. password manager By keeping track of all passwords instead of relying on a single one, they can be compromised if stolen.
Use two-factor authentication
Implement Two-factor authentication It’s just an extra shield to prevent hackers from breaking into your account.
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Install good antivirus software on all your devices
have antivirus software It definitely stops you from clicking on potentially malicious links that can install malware on your device and give hackers access to your private information.
Cart key points
In today’s digital environment, it’s important to protect your information from apps that might sell it. You can protect your privacy by following a few important steps.
First, carefully check the app permissions and only allow access to necessary functions. Please take the time to read the app’s privacy policy and make sure it meets your expectations.
If you download an app from a trusted source, choose and consider using it. antivirus protection Strengthen your security.
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Additionally, using strong, unique passwords, limiting the information you share online, reviewing app settings, and using a VPN can add another layer of privacy.
By doing these things, you can control your personal information and minimize the risk of your personal information being sold or misused by apps.
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