Nowadays, people turn to mobile apps to manage their mental health. These apps claim to reduce stress and calm the mind. However, a recent report has shocked everyone. It has been revealed that some of the most popular apps on the Google Play Store are unsafe. These apps have been found to have flaws that could leak your personal information. So far, approximately 14.7 million people have installed these apps on their phones.

Personal information at risk

People use these apps to share their most personal details. They write about their sadness, fears, and everyday problems. Investigations have revealed that security flaws can allow hackers to access this information. These apps promise to keep your conversations completely confidential, but in reality, they lack robust security measures. This may also include your past therapy records, which are very sensitive for anyone to access.

How data is leaked

When security experts closely examined these apps, they found over 1,500 major and minor flaws. Many of these flaws were quite serious. Some apps store your data in a location on your phone where any other app can access it. Other apps don't properly lock or encrypt data when sending it over the internet. This creates the risk of data being stolen mid-transit. Furthermore, some apps' login methods were found to be outdated and vulnerable.

Caution is the only protection

If you're using such an app, you need to be a little cautious. First, check what permissions you've granted the app. Sometimes, these apps ask for permission for things they don't need, like your photos or call records. If the app isn't absolutely necessary, it's best to uninstall it. Always update your app, as companies periodically send updates to fix security flaws.

Choosing trusted apps

It's important to gather complete information about any app before downloading it. Don't assume it's safe just by looking at its download count. Read reviews on the app store and see what people are saying about its privacy. These apps are designed to help with issues like depression and anxiety, but if they compromise your privacy, they can do more harm than good.

Strong passwords and security

To increase your phone's security, always use two-factor authentication. Also, always keep Google Play Protect enabled on your phone. This feature continuously scans your phone's apps and immediately alerts you to any threats. Avoid sharing too much personal information when using apps. Remember that nothing on the internet is completely secure, so it's crucial to exercise your common sense.