Privacy guide

How to check and fix app permissions on your phone.

A simple guide to reviewing app permissions on Android and iPhone in India: what to look for, which to revoke, and how often to recheck.

The simple answer

App permissions control what an app can reach: camera, microphone, location, contacts, photos, SMS and more. Over time, apps collect permissions you may not remember granting.

A quick review can close gaps fast. The rule of thumb is simple: if a permission is not needed for what you use the app for, turn it off.

What to check

1
Open settings and review permissions per app.

If this is unclear, treat it as a signal to ask the company for a plain-English explanation.

2
Revoke camera, mic, location and contacts you do not need.

If this is unclear, treat it as a signal to ask the company for a plain-English explanation.

3
Watch for apps with surprising access.

If this is unclear, treat it as a signal to ask the company for a plain-English explanation.

4
Recheck permissions after big updates.

If this is unclear, treat it as a signal to ask the company for a plain-English explanation.

From our investigation

Permissions pile up quietly.

In the investigation, broad permissions mattered because people often grant access just to continue. A periodic review is the simplest way to take it back.

What to do next

1
Do a permission review this week.

Keep it practical: take one action, save proof, and avoid giving more data than the task needs.

2
Turn off anything not needed for your use.

Keep it practical: take one action, save proof, and avoid giving more data than the task needs.

3
Set a reminder to recheck every few months.

Keep it practical: take one action, save proof, and avoid giving more data than the task needs.

People also ask

Where do I find app permissions?

In phone settings, under each app or under a privacy or permissions section on Android and iPhone.

Which permissions should I worry about?

Camera, microphone, location, contacts, photos and SMS are the most sensitive to review.

Will turning off permissions break apps?

Some features may stop, but you can re-enable a permission if an app genuinely needs it.

If you are a company
Check your own website.

How many trackers run on your pages? Does your privacy policy name them? Can you answer a data-rights email? If you don't know, we can help you find out.

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Mera data mera hai.

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Read the full investigation.

We investigated 107 Indian company websites. The public report shows what we found.

Read the reportTry the experience