How to Stop Granting Apps More Access Than They Need

We've all done it: a new app asks for access to your Google or Facebook account, and you click "Allow" without a second thought. It's quick, easy, and gets you into the app faster. But what exactly have you agreed to?

Understanding App Permissions

When an app asks to connect to your social media, email, or other online accounts, it's requesting permission to access certain parts of your information or perform actions on your behalf. This connection is often called an OAuth grant, and it's how many apps offer features like "Sign in with Google" or "Connect with Facebook". You're essentially giving one app a key to another.

The Danger of Over-Permitting

Granting too many permissions, or permissions you don't fully understand, can expose your personal information to risks. If a connected app suffers a data breach, your data linked to that app could be compromised. Malicious apps might even use broad permissions to spam your contacts, post on your behalf, or steal sensitive information.

• Unexpected posts or messages appearing on your social media.
• Emails or notifications from services you don't recognise, mentioning a connected app.
• Being locked out of an account after connecting a new app.

Regularly Review Your Connected Apps

Just as you spring clean your home, it's a good idea to regularly review and revoke access for apps you no longer use or don't trust. Many of us connect apps for a one-off purpose and then forget about them, leaving an open door to our digital lives.

• For Google: Visit your Google Account, then go to 'Security' > 'Third-party apps with account access'.
• For Facebook: Go to 'Settings & Privacy' > 'Settings' > 'Apps and Websites'.
• For Microsoft: Go to your Microsoft account 'Privacy dashboard' > 'Apps and services that can access your data'.

Revoke Unused or Suspicious Access

Once you're in the review section, take a close look at each app. Ask yourself: Do I still use this app? Does it really need the permissions it has? If an app seems suspicious, or you no longer use it, revoke its access immediately. Removing an app's permission is usually as simple as clicking a 'Remove' or 'Revoke Access' button next to its name.

• Apps you don't remember installing.
• Apps with very broad permissions (e.g., 'read, write, and delete all your data') that don't match their function.
• Apps you used once for a specific task and no longer need.

Be Mindful When Granting New Permissions

Before clicking 'Allow' for any new app, pause and read exactly what permissions it's asking for. If a simple photo editor wants access to your contacts or location history, that should raise a red flag. Only grant what's necessary for the app to function.

• Read the permission request carefully, don't just skim it.
• Consider if the requested access aligns with the app's core purpose.
• Be wary of apps asking for full access to your profile, contacts, or private messages if it's not essential for their function.

Key takeaway

Taking a few moments to understand and manage your app permissions can save you a lot of trouble down the track. Regularly reviewing what has access to your online accounts is a simple yet powerful step in protecting your privacy and security. It’s all about maintaining control over your digital footprint.