Tips & Tutorials

How to Block Permissions to Individual Apps

When it comes to the personal information on your device, you want to make sure that it remains safe and out of the wrong hands. When you download apps from the Play store, many of them will ask for certain permissions from your phone, such as access to the camera app or your microphone. But what happens if one of these apps is malicious, and you’ve just given the app access to your camera app? In addition to thoroughly checking the app’s description for errors or suspicious language, make sure to try to run the security scan feature from dfndr security on your phone after downloading any new apps.

For individuals looking for a more customized approach to security on their digital devices, it can be helpful to manage the preferences of specific applications. You can decide what you will and won’t share with each third-party app on your phone. Many users are often unaware of which permissions they give to applications to use, and how that can affect battery usage and memory storage as well. Savvy digital users will often customize which permissions are given to third-party apps so they know that sensitive information like their photos, location, or documents remain secure.

Read More: Google Play Protect Fails to Deliver – Only Stops 65.8% of Malware

If you’re wondering how to grant specific permissions, block specific permissions, or decide what information your device gives out to third-party applications, learn how to do so below. On Android devices, the Google Play store has already issued clear instructions on what to do with regards to auto-updates.

How to Block Permissions to Apps
Before blocking access to certain apps, be aware that doing so may cause the app requesting access to not run properly. If you have Android 6.0 or later, you’ll be able to easily block certain permissions to apps, or edit these permissions later if you change your mind. To block or manage your permissions, go to Settings > Apps > App Permissions. You can then choose “Calendar” or “Camera,” for example, and disable permissions.

The Importance of Strong Security
While it may not seem like an important aspect of data management, making sure that your information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands is important for securing your information and devices against hackers and the latest threats. The app store is often the place where third-parties can get access to your data, and then your information isn’t just in your hands, it’s in the hands of all the providers. Your security is only as strong as your weakest link, especially if you reuse passwords or don’t have other programs monitoring your behavior for protection.

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The dfndr blog is an informative channel that presents exclusive content on security and privacy in the mobile and business world, with tips to keep users protected. Populated by a select group of expert reporters, the channel has a partnership with dfndr lab's security team. Together they bring you, first-notice news about attacks, scams, internet vulnerabilities, malware and everything affecting cybersecurity.

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