App permissions control access to parts of the phone, including the camera, microphone, location, contacts, photos, files, call logs and SMS. The safest decision depends on what the app genuinely does.
Open the permission manager
On many Android phones, open Settings, then Security and privacy, Privacy, or Permission manager. You can review access by permission type or by app.
Apply the purpose test
Ask what feature requires the permission. A camera app needs camera access. A calculator normally does not need contacts or precise location. A delivery app may need location while in use, but continuous access may be unnecessary.
Choose the narrowest option
Where Android offers choices, prefer access only while using the app, ask every time, approximate location or selected photos when those options still allow the feature to work.
Review sensitive categories
- SMS and call logs
- Accessibility services
- Notification access
- Install unknown apps
- Device administrator access
- All-files access
These controls can be legitimate, but they deserve extra explanation.
Remove access from unused apps
Android can pause app activity or remove permissions for apps that have not been used. You can also uninstall an app and review linked account access separately.
The bottom line
Grant the smallest permission that supports a feature you understand. If an app refuses to work without unrelated sensitive access, look for a safer alternative.
