Four tips to prevent apps from accessing your personal data: beware of “hidden” AI

The growing number of apps designed to meet virtually any user need brings convenience, but also introduces significant risks. These include access to sensitive information such as contacts, real-time location, or tracking activity across other platforms.

According to data from the Autonomous University of Madrid, cited by messaging app ellu, more than 80% of apps fail to comply with data protection regulations by transferring personal data outside the device without adequate transparency.

Social media platforms, along with transport and e-commerce apps, are among those that collect the most data. This largely happens because many users grant permissions without reviewing privacy policies or understanding the scope of the access they are allowing, as ellu noted in a press release.

How to limit access to your data

One of the main recommendations is to review the permissions granted to each app and disable those that are not necessary for its proper functioning.

Another key issue is the so-called “invisible” artificial intelligence. More and more applications integrate this type of technology to enhance the user experience, which may involve accessing additional data in order to build user profiles that, in some cases, are commercialized outside the application.

To reduce this risk, users are advised to check whether the app clearly explains how data is used and whether these AI-based features can be disabled.

User registration is another common way apps gain access to personal data. In this regard, it is advisable to choose platforms that apply data minimization principles from the design stage, such as the use of anonymous IDs. However, if registration is mandatory, using a secondary email account or an alias is recommended.

Finally, keeping both the device and applications up to date is essential. This ensures that security patches are applied and improves how the device manages permissions.