Before you download another app, make sure you know exactly which apps you should NOT be downloading in order to keep your data and privacy safe. Not all apps are the same — and some contain malicious malware and intend to collect your data and use it without your knowledge. Although Apple does a better job than other software platforms at keeping suspicious apps out of its App Store, no system is foolproof. Be aware of these four dangerous apps that track your location and can put you at risk of viruses and more.
Apps That Ask for Extensive Permissions
Is that app you downloaded asking you for permission for what seems like everything under the sun? Does the app want to know your contacts, locations, and have access to your photos, camera, microphone, etc? An app should always explain what it intends to do with the permission you grant it — why it’s important to its functionality. If it doesn’t explain, or the requests seem excessive to you, don’t feel like you have to keep the app or grant it permissions.
Fake Apps
There are a number of fake apps out there that look legit. They may impersonate a legitimate company, but if you look closely, something is off about them. Maybe the font looks wrong or the copy description of the app doesn’t read well. Whatever it is that is making you suspicious, don’t ignore the gut feeling you have. Read its reviews and ratings carefully before downloading it.
Apps from Third-Party Sources
It’s not recommended that you jailbreak your phone so that you can download apps from sources that aren’t the App Store. Apple can’t guarantee the app in question is legit or safe, as it wouldn’t be able to vet it that way.
Apps That Require Location Tracking
There’s a caveat here: many great apps require your location. You would never be able to use a credible maps app, for example, unless you allow it to have access to your location. Be weary of apps that require continuous location access (not just location access when they’re in use). Their privacy policies should also be transparent. If anything raises a red flag, don’t download the app.
