How to find out what data apps are collecting about you

With instances of data leakage becoming more and more common, privacy has become the chief casualty. But for those who want to find out if an app is stealthily collecting their data, there are ways to find out, according to researchers.

As cybersecurity firm Kaspersky explained in a blog, most apps collect some information about the user. Sometimes, they really need such data to operate. For example, a navigation app requires your positioning information to build a convenient route for the user.

Developers often use information about users to monetise or improve their service — with prior consent. For example, they may collect anonymous statistics to find bottlenecks in their app and understand along what avenue it needs to be developed.