A flashlight app asking for contacts, camera, and location? No, it doesn’t need those.
Why apps over-request:
- Data sells to advertisers
- Lazy development (“just in case”)
- Hidden tracking features
Red flags:
- Games wanting contacts or SMS
- Background location for non-navigation apps
- Microphone for non-voice apps
How to manage:
- iPhone: Settings → Privacy & Security
- Android: Settings → Apps → [App] → Permissions
Best practice:
- Deny by default
- Use “While Using” for location
- Delete apps you don’t use
- Audit permissions every few months