

“Sometimes an app combines a legitimate cash-for-task model with background data collection, so watch out for that, too.” Moneymaking Apps That Make the Grade “While many apps offer legitimate means to make money - taking surveys, snapping photos of local businesses, lock screen ads and reviewing products - be wary of apps that seem too good to be true,” Mr. Pay special attention to reviews that address privacy issues. What Other Users Have to Say: Beyond reading the fine print, you can also research the app’s reputation via online reviews. However, it’s also likely it makes money selling your data to advertisers or other third parties, which is why it’s important to note what kind of data it tracks and how it uses it.ģ. “That alone can be very revealing in how the companies plan to use their data.” For example, an app might make money through sponsorships with the brands it partners with or it might offer customers paid upgrades. How They Make Money: “From a consumer’s standpoint, it’s important to understand what the monetization model is for the company that makes these apps,” added Kowsik Guruswamy, chief technology officer at Menlo Security. “Think about whether that permission is really necessary for the app to work or if it’s just using that permission to mine more personal data,” he said.Ģ.
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“Both iOS and Android alert users when an app asks for a new permission.” That might be permission to access your location, photos or contacts, for example. “Giving up your privacy to a data-collection company should not be done lightly,” he warned.

What They Do With Your Data: Find out what kind of data is collected, how that data is used, how long the company retains it and whom the company shares it with, Mr. So what exactly should you look for in an app’s privacy policy?ġ. That’s not to say your information isn’t safe, but it’s a good reminder to always make sure you read the fine print before downloading. What to Look for in an App’s Privacy Policy Before You Installīy signing up for almost any app, you agree to share some personal information. Of course, privacy policies are often lengthy and hard to understand, so it helps to know what you’re looking for. Watch out for apps that collect background data - you can find that information in the app’s privacy policy when you sign up. “Some types of data these apps can collect about you include websites visited, real-time location, online purchases, other apps you use, your entire contact list and search queries,” he said. Paul Bischoff, a privacy advocate at, says that these apps typically collect data for marketing purposes. Nearly any kind of reward app, even the legitimate ones, will track at least some of your personal data. There are quite a few apps designed to help you earn some extra dough, either in the form of gift cards or standard cold, hard cash.

Your phone might be a good place to start.
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Let’s say you want to earn some extra pocket cash, but you’re short on free time (and energy).
