How to Check and Control App Permissions on Your Phone

In my previous article, I explained how many finance and other apps secretly misuse permissions to collect our private data. Today, let’s take the next step: learning how to check, manage, and control app permissions on your own phone. Awareness is the first step. Control is the second.

Why Permissions Matter

When you install an app, it often asks for access to your contacts, messages, location, or even your microphone and camera. Each permission is like handing over a key to a part of your personal life.

Some apps genuinely need these permissions — for example, Google Maps needs location access. But many shady apps ask for things they don’t need, opening doors to tracking, spying, fraud, or manipulation.

That’s why reviewing and controlling app permissions is critical for your privacy and safety.

Step-by-Step Guide: Android Phones

1. Check app-specific permissions

Open Settings → Apps → [Choose App] → Permissions

You’ll see what the app can access (Camera, Contacts, SMS, Location, etc.)

Switch OFF anything unnecessary.

2. Check permissions by category

Open Settings → Privacy → Permission Manager

Here you’ll see which apps are using which permission. Example:

Camera → WhatsApp, Instagram, Zoom

Location → Google Maps, Swiggy, Ola

Revoke apps that don’t truly need it.

3. Golden rule for Android

If an app doesn’t need it for its main function, deny it.

Example: A Torch app never needs Contacts or SMS.

Step-by-Step Guide: iPhones (iOS)

1. Check permissions

Go to Settings → Privacy & Security

You’ll see categories like Camera, Microphone, Contacts, Location.

2. Manage app access

Tap a category (e.g., Camera) → See which apps are using it → Turn OFF where unnecessary.

3. Golden rule for iOS

Most apps will still work fine even if you revoke permissions.

Only allow when essential.

Pro Tips for Better Privacy

Use web versions: For banking or sensitive apps, prefer web portals in your browser instead of installing the app.

Separate accounts: Create a different Google/Apple ID for finance-related apps.

Monthly review: Make it a habit to check permissions once a month.

Think before you click “Allow”: Don’t blindly accept permission pop-ups.

Conclusion

Our smartphones are powerful, but they also carry the risk of exposing our private lives if we aren’t careful.

By checking and controlling app permissions, you take back control of your privacy.

👉 Check your phone today — you’ll be surprised at how many apps know more about you than they should.

Exploring Ideas is about learning and protecting ourselves in a digital world. Awareness is the first step. Control is the second.

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