HeyIT Tips & Tricks #9: Review App Permissions
- Breagha Sinclair
- Jan 15
- 2 min read
Welcome back to another edition of HeyIT’s Tips & Tricks!
As we kick off January 2026, it’s the perfect time to reset habits and start the year strong, especially when it comes to cybersecurity.
This month’s tip is all about protecting your privacy and reducing unnecessary risk right from the start of the year:
📱 Review App Permissions — Only Give Apps What They Need
🛑 Why It Matters
Many apps ask for access to your location, camera, microphone, contacts, or files even when those permissions aren’t essential.
Unchecked app permissions can:
• Track your location when it’s not needed
• Access your camera or microphone in the background
• Collect more personal data than you realise
• Increase your risk if an app is breached or compromised
Over time, these small permissions can quietly add up to big privacy risks.
✅ Solution: Start the Year with a Permission Clean-Up
A new year is the perfect time to review what your apps can access:
• Disable location, camera, or microphone access if it’s not required
• Remove permissions from apps you rarely or no longer use
• Be cautious with new apps asking for full access
• Remember: permissions can always be turned back on later
Less access means less exposure.
🛠 Step-by-Step: Review App Permissions
Open Settings.
Scroll down and tap Privacy & Security
Select Location Services
Review each app and select:
Never – app cannot access this feature
Ask Next Time – app must request access each time
While Using the App – app can access only when open and in use
Repeat for all categories to ensure apps only have the permissions they truly need.
🛠 Quick Check: App Permissions
On phones, tablets, and computers, app permissions can be reviewed in your device settings. Even a quick review once or twice a year can significantly improve your privacy and security.
💡 January Reminder
New year. Fresh start. Better habits.
Taking a few minutes now to review app permissions can help protect your data all year long.
Stay smart. Stay secure.
Want to Start 2026 One Step Ahead?
📱 Control your apps. Protect your data.
Book Your FREE 15-Minute Security Check-In
We’ll help you tighten permissions, improve privacy settings, and build simple habits that keep your organisation cyber-secure.
HeyIT | Helping People Stay Cyber-Smart
Stay safe out there!
Breagha @ HeyIT
