Let’s be honest.
When that little pop-up appears asking for permission, most of us just hit “Allow” so we can get on with things.
But here’s the catch:
Every time you blindly tap Allow, it’s like handing out a blank cheque — the app decides what to cash in.
What App Permissions Actually Do
Permissions let apps access parts of your phone or data. Some are obvious, others not so much:
• Camera & microphone – video calls, voice notes… or eavesdropping.
• Location – maps and food delivery… or tracking you everywhere.
• Contacts – social apps syncing friends… or harvesting your address book.
• Files & photos – sharing pictures… or scooping up your entire gallery.
Used responsibly, they make apps work. But in the wrong hands, they’re a hacker’s dream.
How Hackers and Dodgy Apps Exploit Them
- Overreach – Why does a torch app need access to your microphone? It doesn’t.
- Data harvesting – Some apps sell your info on to advertisers.
- Malware gateways – If you allow the wrong thing, you’ve just opened the door for spyware or scams.
Real Example
Back in 2019, a popular weather app was exposed for secretly selling users’ precise location data to advertisers.
People thought they were just checking the rain forecast, but in reality, they’d given away their daily routines.
Do This Today
- Check your app permissions
On iPhone: Settings → Privacy → Permissions.
On Android: Settings → Apps → Permissions. - Ask “does it make sense?”
A maps app needs location. A calculator does not. - Use “only while using” options
Most modern phones let you limit access to when the app is open. - Delete apps you don’t use
If it’s sitting there collecting dust, it doesn’t need access to your data. - Stick to official app stores
Avoid sideloading random apps from sketchy sites.
Key Takeaway
App permissions are powerful. Treat them like lending your car keys — only hand them over when you’re sure they’re needed.
Every tap on Allow is a choice. Make it wisely.
At The Cyber Workshop, our Cyber Hygiene Workshop covers app permissions, privacy settings, and all the small tweaks that add up to a much safer digital life — without making your phone useless.
Till next time,
Don’t hand out blank cheques — especially not to apps.
