How To Guide
How to Review and Revoke App Permissions on Mobile
Apps often request more permissions than they need. Regularly reviewing and revoking unnecessary permissions protects your privacy and security.
Overview
App permissions control what data and hardware features apps can access. A calculator app shouldn't need your contacts, and a weather app probably doesn't need your microphone.
Step 1: Android App Permissions
Android gives granular control over individual permissions.
1
Review All Permissions
- Open Settings → Privacy → Permission manager
- You'll see categories: Camera, Microphone, Location, Contacts, etc.
- Tap each category to see which apps have access
- Review 'Allowed all the time', 'Allowed only while using', and 'Denied'
2
Change Individual App Permissions
- Settings → Apps → Select an app → Permissions
- Tap each permission to change: Allow, Only while using, Deny
- Set location to 'Only while using' for most apps
- Deny camera/microphone for apps that don't need them
- Revoke contacts access from games and utilities
3
Check Special Access
- Settings → Apps → Special app access
- Review 'Display over other apps' — disable for suspicious apps
- Check 'Modify system settings' — limit to trusted apps
- Review 'Install unknown apps' — disable for all if possible
- Check 'Device admin apps' — remove any you don't recognise
Warning:
If you find apps with admin access you didn't authorise, remove their access immediately and run a security scan.
Step 2: iPhone App Permissions
iOS provides comprehensive privacy controls.
1
Review Privacy Settings
- Open Settings → Privacy & Security
- Tap each category (Location Services, Contacts, Camera, etc.)
- Review which apps have access to each
- Toggle off access for apps that don't need it
2
Manage Location Services
- Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services
- Set to 'While Using' for most apps (not 'Always')
- Disable 'Precise Location' for apps that only need general area
- Scroll to bottom → System Services → disable unnecessary location tracking
- Review 'Significant Locations' and clear history if desired
3
Check App Tracking
- Settings → Privacy & Security → Tracking
- Disable 'Allow Apps to Request to Track' to block all tracking
- Review which apps have tracking permission
- Revoke tracking for any apps you don't want tracking you
- iOS App Tracking Transparency blocks cross-app tracking
4
Review App Privacy Reports
- Settings → Privacy & Security → App Privacy Report
- Enable if not already active
- See which apps accessed your data and when
- Identify apps accessing data frequently or unexpectedly
- Use this to make informed decisions about permissions
Step 3: Ongoing Permission Maintenance
Make permission reviews a regular habit.
1
Monthly Permission Audit
- Set a monthly reminder to review permissions
- Remove permissions from apps you haven't used recently
- Uninstall apps you no longer use entirely
- Check for new permission requests after app updates
- Keep your operating system updated for latest privacy features
2
General Permission Guidelines
- Camera: Only photo/video apps, video call apps, QR scanners
- Microphone: Only voice/video call apps, voice recorders
- Location: Only maps, weather, ride-sharing — use 'While Using'
- Contacts: Only messaging, email, phone apps
- Storage: Only file managers, photo editors, cloud storage
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