Did you hear about the new game app with augmented reality? The one that is supposed to be the next app-of-the-year. Have you ever downloaded a useful app and while installing, a pop up appears asking to access personal information? We tend to quickly accept the terms so that we can use the exciting new and useful app. However, take a moment and read what is being requested; if you are not comfortable with what they are asking then do not accept the terms.

Yes, limiting permissions of an app may limit functionality, but it also ensures your personal information remains yours. Permissions can be approved later after you have done some research. Also, be aware that not all permissions are cause for alarm, but here are some permission requests to review before accepting: access to your camera, stored payment information, other app use and location access. Not all apps are created equal. If you find an application that needs to be downloaded from a third-party website rather than your trusted app store, be very careful before proceeding.

There are useful and entertaining services available when we grant access to personal information via permissions, but our personal information could be used in ways we are unaware of and have the potential for mismanagement. For example, consider that electronic devices are carried everywhere we go. At the end of a workday, these electronic devices can send notifications estimating commute time. This information could be very useful and helpful, so long as the information remains under the owner’s control and is not shared with people like their insurance companies as a specific profile for monthly payments.

Giving unreviewed access to every request on an electronic device creates a risk to personal information and privacy. But it isn’t too late. Take a few minutes and review the app permissions in your electronic devices, then remove any apps that aren’t used anymore or apps that ask for unnecessary personal information which you may not be comfortable sharing. In the future, if you don’t want to grant access to your personal information, then say no to that request. Remember, we are responsible for and control the apps on our electronic devices.

Jonathan Niendorf is a current National Information Assurance Training and Education Center Scholarship for Service student at Idaho State University. He previously earned a degree in Math Education (major) and Spanish Education (minor) from Brigham Young University-Idaho. He then happily taught mathematics at South Fremont High School in St. Anthony. Jonathan hopes this month's awareness goal will help raise Idahoan awareness of app security to better protect their mobile environments.