How To Use Apps Safely | Stay Safe Online With Netsafe

What is an app?

An app (short for application) is a piece of software that lets you perform a task on a computer, mobile, tablet or wearable device.

While many apps are free, some charge for advanced features. They allow you to connect on social media, perform banking, stream music, and more.

Using apps safely

What to consider?

Most apps are safe but check your app permissions to ensure you are sharing only what you intend. An app might request access to features like your location for a map app, but some permission requests may be unnecessary or may not seem essential for the app’s functionality.

App permissions to check

Here are some app permissions to check and why:

Location: Maps where you are; potential for misuse.
Camera: Access to photos and videos; risk of unwanted access.
Contact list/address book: sharing your contacts information
Microphone: May capture sound around you.
SMS: Access to your text messages.
Call history: Logs your device history.
In-app purchasing: Risk of unwanted purchases.

Some apps might not work without certain permissions, so weigh the necessity versus your comfort. Usually, the information the app accesses will improve its functionality.

Tips to consider before installing an app

When installing an app, it will notify you if it requires access to information on your device. Before accepting, first consider the following:

Read about the app before installation to understand its functionality.
Be cautious with permissions requested by the app.
Download from reputable sources like Apple’s App Store(https://www.apple.com/nz/ios/app-store/) or Google Play(https://play.google.com/store?utm_source=apac_med&utm_medium=hasem&utm_content=Jan0220&utm_campaign=Evergreen&pcampaignid=MKT-DR-apac-nz-1003227-med-hasem-py-Evergreen-Jan0220-Text_Search_BKWS-BKWS%7cONSEM_kwid_43700035223736029_creativeid_406968768428_device_c_kwd_kwd-28432345789_geoid_1011036_network_g&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIvrzsgfW96AIVj6mWCh3XSQW2EAAYASAAEgJIIfD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds).
Log out of apps with sensitive info, like banking apps, when done.
Use a PIN or password.
Disable in-app purchases if not needed.
Avoid jailbroken phones as they are more prone to security breaches.
Delete unused apps.
Install software updates on your device promptly.
Wipe personal information from devices before selling or recycling.

Apps often request location sharing, providing options to allow location sharing either once or whilst you’re using the app. Allowing continuous location sharing whilst using the app will allow the app to track your movements.

Some apps have location sharing enabled by default, manage your location sharing settings wisely, restricting them to "allow once" if needed, or if it’s not essential for you to fully use the app as you need to, choose “don’t allow.”

Finding app permissions

Android devices:

Open the Settings app.
Tap Apps & Notifications.
Tap Advanced > App Permissions.
Select a permission like Calendar, Location, or Phone.
Choose which apps can access this permission.

Apple devices:

Open the Settings app.
Tap Privacy.
Select a permission like Location Services, Calendars, or Camera.
Choose which apps can access this permission.

Advice for parents

Apps are generally useful but monitoring your device's privacy settings and app permissions is essential. Understanding the apps your child uses is crucial. For instance, apps that enable in-app purchases(/gaming/in-app-purchase-and-loot-boxes) can lead to unintended costs if linked to a bank account.

Teach your child online safety basics and maintain open conversations about their online activities. This helps mitigate potential harm from disturbing online experiences.

If you are concerned about the contents of an app and if it is appropriate for your child, check the content rating to help you decide before downloading.