According to Elegant Media, the number of apps that eavesdrop on private conversations and collect credit card information is growing.
The app and software development company Elegant Media works with authorities, companies, entrepreneurs and companies of all sizes to develop and provide technical solutions.
"I've heard of a disturbing number of people who have been victims of credit card fraud from apps whose privacy is not kept at the same level of public sacredness by the developers," said Anushka, Co-Founder and CEO of Elegant Media Bandara.
“Some apps have been granted a financial license to store credit card information with the user's permission. Apps like AirTasker, PayPal, AirBnB, and Netflix store your credit card information securely – but that doesn't mean your private information is necessarily safe. "
According to Bandara, there are a number of ways you can check an app before downloading it to your device and keep your private data safe.
- Take a background test. Credible providers should have a security and privacy policy on their website that describes how information is collected.
- Check how often the app has been downloaded. While it's okay to download an app that hasn't hit a million downloads, make sure you dive deep into the provider.
- Reconsider which vendors you give permission. Check with your settings whether the permissions are suitable for the respective app type. For example, a gaming app shouldn't need authorization for the camera or microphone.
- Don't make in-app purchases in public places. Hackers can access public Wi-Fi signals and intercept private information while it is being transmitted by an app.
- Keep an eye on your in-app purchases. Keep a printed or digital copy of the receipts and order confirmations so that you can compare the amount on your invoice statement. If you notice any suspicious activity, contact your credit card issuer immediately.
"If you're still concerned or suspicious of an app, I encourage people to just delete it entirely," says Bandara.
For more information on Elegant Media's services, please visit elegantmedia.com.au.
How to Identify a Shady App first appeared in Retail World Magazine.
