4 Signs You Might Need to Delete That App
4 Signs You Might Need to Delete That App
There is an overwhelming number of apps in the Apple, Google Play, and Kindle Store. But, just because an app is listed in one of these platforms doesn’t mean it’s a quality app. And, an app that works for one person might not be the best app for another person.
There are valid reasons why you might need to delete that app on your phone or your child’s phone.
4 Signs You Might Need to Delete That App
1. If the app causes aggression or anger in your child
Are you noticing your child displays feelings of anger or aggression while using the app or immediately afterwards? Or, is the app causing your child to “zone out”?
Look carefully at the app. Check to see if the app might be the issue. If your child spends a good deal of time using the app, be sure the app is a high quality educational app. Or an app which adds value to you or your child’s life. If you find the app isn’t adding value, or is causing aggression, delete the app.
2. If the app is putting your child at risk
Is the app known to be the cause of bullying issues? Is your child having that experience on the app? If so, delete the app. Does the app put your child at risk for exposure to pornography or sexual predators? If so, delete the app.
Keep in mind there are ways to control the settings for apps like Musical.ly to prevent unwanted contact from people your child doesn’t know. But, it’s important to customize your child’s account settings and stay up-to-date on updates as they are rolled out by apps your child is using.
3. If the app is selling your child’s personal information
Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is a law which requires apps to get parental consent before they collect personal data from children under the age of 13. Recently, a string of companies marketing apps to families has come under fire for violating COPPA. If you find out an app has violated COPPA, take a stand and delete the app.
4. If the permissions for the app don’t make sense
Always check out the permissions an app requires before you download. Some apps will request permission to see your location, photos, contacts, information about the phone calls you make, or the ability to read and write to your SD card.
Take a moment and consider whether the app needs the permissions to function properly. An app that helps you locate restaurants nearby would need to know your location, but does that app need access to your contacts?
There is an overwhelming number of permissions with some of the most popular apps. Many of them are necessary. But, it’s always a good practice to review the permissions for apps you download. Pew Research has compiled a list of the most popular apps in the Google Play Store along with the permissions they request. The list is helpful for understanding permissions.
If you find the app is requesting permissions which aren’t needed for the functionality of the app, delete the app.
Most of us would never open an email attachment from a stranger. But it’s common practice for many to download apps without considering the source. Remember, downloading an app doesn’t mean you need to keep it installed on your device forever.
If you realize an app comes from a questionable source, or isn’t helpful, it’s perfectly fine to delete that app.
