Found Unsafe Apps on My Child's Device

Identify the Apps

Note the names of the apps that concern you and research them. Search for each app name along with words like 'safety' or 'parents guide' to understand what the app does, its age rating, and known risks. Some apps disguise themselves — vault apps may look like a calculator or utility tool.

✗ Do not: Do not delete the apps immediately — you may need to understand how they were being used first.

Talk to Your Child

Ask your child about the apps in a non-confrontational way. Questions like 'I noticed this app on your phone — can you tell me about it?' work better than accusations. Listen to their explanation and assess whether the app was being used harmfully.

Check App Permissions and Activity

Review what permissions the app has been granted — access to camera, microphone, location, contacts, and photos. Check whether the app has messaging features and whether your child has been communicating with anyone through it.

Remove Unsafe Apps and Adjust Settings

Remove any apps that are age-inappropriate or pose genuine safety risks. Update the device's parental controls to require your approval for future app installations. On iPhone, use Screen Time; on Android, use Google Family Link.

Establish Ongoing App Agreements

Agree with your child on a process for downloading new apps — they ask you first, you research it together, and you decide jointly. This builds trust and teaches them to evaluate apps critically rather than simply imposing a ban.