permission

AppWizard
August 11, 2025
Google Wallet now requires users to enable the “Precise location” setting on Android devices to access detailed maps and addresses on payment receipts, a feature that was previously available by default. This change, implemented in late July, prompts users to activate location access when viewing receipts that lack map features. Enabling location permissions will only affect new transactions and will not retroactively update past receipts.
AppWizard
August 11, 2025
A wave of mobile malware is targeting Android users in India, posing as legitimate banking applications. This malware can fully compromise infected devices, stealing sensitive data, intercepting communications, and conducting unauthorized financial transactions. It typically spreads through deceptive "dropper" apps via phishing messages on platforms like WhatsApp, SMS, or email, often disguised as system updates or official banking apps. The malware requests extensive Android permissions, allowing it to read and send SMS messages and intercept two-factor authentication codes. It operates stealthily, bypassing Android’s battery optimization features, and can manipulate notification content. All captured data is transmitted to attackers, enabling potential financial fraud and identity theft. Users are advised to install apps only from trusted sources, be skeptical of unexpected installation prompts, and review permission requests carefully.
AppWizard
August 10, 2025
Users of the Google Wallet app on Android are now required to grant location permissions to access detailed receipts that include merchant addresses and maps. This change, implemented in late July or early August, means that recent transactions only show the cost, date, statement, and transaction ID, without the map feature. A prompt encourages users to enable location settings to regain access to detailed receipts. To restore the map functionality, users must enable "Precise location" permission through the app, but this does not apply retroactively to past transactions.
AppWizard
July 28, 2025
A comprehensive investigation by Which? and Hexiosec analyzed 20 popular Android applications, revealing that all request permissions that could compromise user privacy. The Xiaomi Home app had the highest number of permission requests at 91, followed by Samsung SmartThings with 82, Facebook with 69, and WhatsApp with 66. While some permissions are necessary for functionality, the excessive requests raise concerns about digital surveillance. TikTok faced scrutiny for its audio recording and device file access requests, while Temu was criticized for excessive promotional emails linked to its location access. Amazon defended its camera access requests as enhancing user experience, and Meta stated that its apps do not use the microphone without user involvement. The investigation highlights the trade-off between free services and the collection of personal data.
AppWizard
July 26, 2025
Modeler Ryan Yan and creative director Liam Cribbs presented their school project, Mycopunk, to potential publishers at GDC 2024. Mycopunk is a co-op first-person shooter where players act as robot exterminators combating a fungal infection on a planet. The game, developed over nine months by students from NYU, recently launched in early access under Devolver Digital. The team, known as Pigeons at Play, believes in the potential of student-led projects and encourages students to pitch games with a solid plan and a fun demo.
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