Think you know what your apps are collecting?
Most people expect apps to gather a bit of data – maybe your email for login, or location for maps. The reality is much murkier. Hidden behind the friendly interfaces are streams of information you never see. This “shadow data” is the digital dust you leave without noticing, and it’s a goldmine for companies and criminals alike.
The hidden problem:
Unlike the details you knowingly hand over, shadow data is often invisible. Apps scoop it up in the background, share it with third parties, and store it without clear consent. Over time, this creates a profile of your life far richer than you realise.
Examples of Shadow Data
• Metadata – when you send a photo, the location, time, and device info often travel with it.
• Background app activity – even when closed, some apps quietly ping servers about your movements.
• Connected devices – smart home gadgets collect usage patterns, not just commands.
• Tracking pixels – tiny, invisible files in emails and websites log your behaviour.
Real Example
In 2023, researchers discovered that popular weather apps were quietly harvesting precise location data and selling it to advertisers. Users thought they were checking the forecast, but their daily routines were being tracked and sold on.
For more examples of hidden risks, see our post on Second-Hand Tech: The Data You Forget to Sell.
Do This Today
- Review app permissions
Go into your phone’s settings and revoke access that doesn’t make sense. A torch app doesn’t need your location. - Limit data sharing
On iPhone and Android, you can reset advertising IDs and stop background tracking. - Use trusted apps
Stick to well-reviewed apps from official stores, not sideloaded APKs. - Check privacy policies
Dry reading, yes. But look for vague phrases like “sharing with partners” – they often mean data brokers. - Stay informed
The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (↗) has clear guidance on managing your digital footprint.
Key Takeaway
Shadow data isn’t science fiction – it’s happening every day in the apps you trust. By controlling permissions, questioning vague policies, and pruning what you install, you can keep more of your personal life out of the shadows.
At The Cyber Workshop, we dig into these hidden risks so you can protect yourself without paranoia. From shadow data to phishing tricks, our blog helps you spot dangers early and stay one step ahead.
Till next time,
Think before you click “Allow” – because in the digital world, silence doesn’t mean nothing is happening.
