Keeping tabs on your Apps
Most services and websites now also offer a mobile application. Apps that run on a tablet or mobile device have their own set of permissions to access that device or to access the data in the accounts you might use to log in.
Your mobile device could be filled with suspicious apps running in the background or using default permissions you never realized you approved. These apps may be gathering your personal information without your knowledge while also putting your identity and privacy at risk. Check your app permissions and use the “rule of least privilege” to delete what you don’t need or no longer use. Learn to just say “no” to privilege requests that don’t make sense and only download apps from trusted vendors and sources. Here are three best practices you can use today to keep tabs on your apps:
- Delete apps you don’t need or no longer use.
- Review app permissions. Limit how much data you share with the app.
- Only download apps from trusted sources.
Want to view or change your privacy/security settings, but don’t know where to find them? Use these direct links, published by the National Cybersecurity Alliance, to update your privacy settings on popular devices and online services: https://staysafeonline.org/stay-safe-online/managing-your-privacy/manage-privacy-settings/
You can also run a Google Security Check-up to view recent security events within your Google account. Watch our video tutorial to learn how to run a Google Security check up here.