Have you ever considered that freeware apps on your smartphone might monitor you in real-time? Experts point out that three data types in your phone — location tracking, camera access, and email addresses — are the most severe privacy vulnerabilities.
Are you aware of your phone’s surveillance?
Symantec, an internet security company based in the United States, has a Chief Technology Officer named Zhang Shilong. After analyzing the top 100 popular freeware on iOS and Android platforms, Zhang noted that the most frequently requested permissions involve access to users’ email addresses, usernames, and phone numbers.
When examining permissions that pose a risk, the requirement for “location tracking” and “camera access” permissions is as high as 45 percent in Android apps, while those from iOS stand at 25 percent. Moreover, permissions such as “reading phone call logs” and “reading text messages” are also commonly found in many freeware from Android.
For example, Zhang cited the “Torch Led Flashlight” app, a regular flashlight application. However, a closer inspection of its access requirements reveals permissions for accessing USB storage contents, taking photos with the camera, recording audio with the microphone, and precise user location tracking.
Zhang emphasizes that these apps’ requests for location access could be exploited by unscrupulous businesses for commercial data collection. Developers could obtain authorization for location tracking through these, gather precise data, and then resell it to third parties, exposing individuals’ movements.
How can you prevent personal data from being accessed and leaked by apps?
- Always verify the access requests of free apps before downloading them.
- Install antivirus apps designed for smartphones to protect your personal information through program scans.
Delete these 17 apps now!
Recently, cybersecurity firm ESET released a report revealing that 17 Android apps were found to contain a virus called “SpyLoan.” These managed to evade detection and were available on Google Play; they have been downloaded over 12 million times. Disguised under the guise of legitimate lending services, these malicious freeware claim to offer quick loans. In reality, once a user downloads one, hackers can infiltrate the phone, stealing personal information and funds.
Victims of these apps span across Asia and Latin America. If you have any of these installed, deleting them as soon as possible is crucial to protect your personal information and financial security.
- AA Kredit
- Amor Cash
- GuayabaCash
- EasyCredit
- Cashwow
- CrediBus
- FlashLoan
- PréstamosCrédito
- Préstamos De Crédito-YumiCash
- Go Crédito
- Instantáneo Préstamo
- Cartera grande
- Rápido Crédito
- Finupp Lending
- 4S Cash
- TrueNaira
- EasyCash
Translated by Cecilia
Follow us on X, Facebook, or Pinterest
