How to Check Apps and Permissions on Your Child's Phone
Apps often ask for more access than they need — camera, location, microphone, contacts. Checking these regularly is a simple habit that makes a big difference.
Checking App Permissions on iPhone
Go to Settings and scroll down to see all installed apps.
Tap any app to see exactly what it has permission to access.
Alternatively, go to Settings > Privacy & Security to see which apps can access Location, Camera, Microphone, etc.
Toggle off anything that doesn't make sense — why does a game need your microphone?
Checking App Permissions on Android
Go to Settings > Apps.
Tap an app, then tap Permissions.
Or go to Settings > Privacy > Permission Manager to see all apps with a particular permission.
What to Look Out For
Location access — does this app really need to know where your child is?
Contacts — some apps harvest contact lists.
Microphone and camera — should only be allowed for apps that genuinely need them (video calls, etc.).
Apps you don't recognise — look them up before deciding.
Tip: Make checking permissions a regular habit — perhaps once a month. It only takes five minutes and can reveal apps your child has downloaded that you didn't know about