Why do Android Apps pull my personal information when I download them?

cem95z · 11-12-2009, 02:29 PM

I went to install a silly application, Cat sounds. I got very curious when I read that this application has access to the following: Your location, Your personal information, Network communication, Phone calls.

For some applications, I can see why they need certain information... but for Cat Sounds??? I just can't understand it.

What kind of information am I really giving up when I download applications? Is this a way for developers of applications to get your information legally? What are developers using this information for?

Kcarpenter · 11-25-2009, 02:34 PM

You have to be VERY careful downloading apps from the market. They tell you what apps have access to for a reason. Most people ignore it, bravo for using it!!!!

Bottom Line behind it is to exploit your phone for the contacts list. Having that means they have your moms cell phone number and can now call and try to sell her a Snuggie.

cem95z · 12-02-2009, 04:05 PM

That is actually very scary... especially that this topic is not discussed more often. Privacy of my information, and the information of my friends and family is extremely important. Although I do not have an iPhone, there is something to be said for the app store that apple runs, and the fact that they do review apps (at least a bit) prior to them being published. Some may like a fully open market, but if it allows people to legally steal your information, then it may not be such a good thing.

tranzz · 12-05-2009, 02:04 PM

well, if it has features to use those sounds as contact-specific ring-tones, or to make those sounds when you pass locations you choose, or auto-update itself as new features and bug-fixes become available, it needs those permissions!

If you want to keep some privacy, don't install it, just download actual cat sounds as wav or mp3 or other audio files, and set them yourself as ringtones or whatever.

I know that most of us would like it FAR better if apps like the one you describe ran once, to make those settings in your device, and quit (even uninstalled themselves) rather than running frequently or continuously and probably compromising our personal privacy and security.