App Permissions Explained
Understanding what app permissions mean and which ones are safe to grant.
Understanding App Permissions
Apps request permissions to access device features and data. Learn which permissions are necessary and which pose privacy risks.
High-Risk Permissions
Location
What it accesses: Your precise GPS location
Risks: Tracking movements, building location history
When to allow: Maps, ride-sharing, weather apps only while using
Recommendation: "While Using" only, never "Always"
Contacts
What it accesses: Names, numbers, emails of all contacts
Risks: Data harvesting, spam, identity theft
When to allow: Messaging apps, legitimate contact managers
Recommendation: Deny unless essential for app function
Camera
What it accesses: Front and rear cameras
Risks: Unauthorized photo/video capture, spying
When to allow: Photo apps, video calls, QR scanners
Recommendation: Only when actively using camera features
Microphone
What it accesses: Device microphone for audio recording
Risks: Eavesdropping, voice data collection
When to allow: Voice calls, voice recorders, voice assistants
Recommendation: Review and limit to essential apps
Medium-Risk Permissions
Photos/Media
Access to photos, videos, and media files
Safe for: Photo editors, social media when posting
Calendar
Read and write calendar events
Safe for: Productivity apps, legitimate schedulers
Phone
Make calls, access call history, read phone state
Safe for: Dialer apps, call management tools
SMS
Read, send, and receive text messages
Safe for: Messaging apps, 2FA authenticators
Low-Risk Permissions
Internet Access
Generally safe but allows data transmission
Vibration Control
Low risk, controls device vibration
Prevent Sleep
Keeps screen on, minimal privacy impact
Network State
Checks connectivity, generally safe
How to Review Permissions
Android
Settings → Privacy → Permission Manager → Select permission type to see all apps with that access
iPhone
Settings → Privacy & Security → Select permission category → Review apps with access
Permission Red Flags
- Flashlight app requesting contacts or location
- Calculator app wanting camera or microphone access
- Wallpaper app requesting phone or SMS permissions
- Game requesting access to contacts or call logs
- Any app requesting permissions unrelated to its function