For better or worse, social media apps are here to stay. Taking the bad (privacy concerns) with the good (they provide an easy way to connect with friends and family and stay on top of what’s going on in the world) is just par for the course. If you are concerned with how these apps could be invading your privacy and possibly putting you at risk, should your information get out into the world, one of the best things you can do is know which apps are the biggest offenders and plan accordingly by changing your settings and permissions where possible. In some cases, the only true way to mitigate potential damage is by deleting the app. Here are four social media apps that are routinely called out for their ability to put your safety and privacy at risk.
Meta Apps (Facebook, Instagram, Messenger)
At this point in time, we can lump the Meta apps — Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and Threads — together. Facebook, in particular, has faced harsh criticisms over its data breaches, the way it allows third-party apps to collect and share your data, and its lack of transparency over how it uses your data. It also collects SO MUCH data about you that the mere thought of it all being stored on Facebook isn’t exactly comforting.
Snapchat
Similar to Facebook, Snapchat has been the subject of data breaches. It collects data to sell to advertisers and uses geofilters and geo-targeted ads, which it claims is to enhance user experience, but relies on your location data to sell your ads. The app also gives users a feeling of false confidence. They may think their messages will vanish forever after a few seconds, but anyone on the receiving end can take a screenshot of the message and allow it to live on.
TikTok
This popular app is the subject of regulatory investigations in several countries over its data practices and content moderation policies. It has experienced security breaches and collects a great deal of data, including location, personal info, and browsing history. Because the app is owned by a Chinese company called ByteDance, concerns have been raised about how users’ data may be collected and used by China’s government. In its defense, TikTok has stated that it stores its data outside of China.
Dating App
No matter which dating app you prefer to use, be cautious about the information that you share. On the one hand it makes sense that you’ll need to provide personal information on the app in an effort to meet like-minded people. But security breaches can happen at any time, and may be shared with third-party advertisers, as well. Dating apps have your location and a ton of personal information — be selective about what you share.
