As travel increasingly relies on digital solutions, a new report reveals a startling privacy concern: over 28% of permissions requested by popular travel apps are deemed excessive. This alarming statistic highlights the potential risks to user privacy posed by apps like Airbnb, Booking, and FlightRadar24.

According to research conducted by NordVPN, travel applications are among the most privacy-unfriendly, requesting access to device functions that are unnecessary for their performance. “Travel apps are among the most eager to request access to devices’ functions that are not needed for their performance. Collected data could be used against the user’s interests and lead to privacy issues that are way more serious than targeted ads,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven, cybersecurity advisor at NordVPN. He emphasizes the need for users to be cautious before granting permissions, even to well-known and seemingly trustworthy service providers.

The study reveals that, on average, a single travel app requests nearly 23 permissions, including access to sensitive information such as location, photos, and videos. Out of these, more than six permissions are typically unnecessary for the app’s functionality. Travel apps are particularly concerning for requesting special, dangerous, and biometric permissions involving susceptible personal information and critical system processes. While most apps request more than seven permissions, travel apps average nine special, dangerous, and biometric permissions.

Privacy Risks: The Hidden Dangers

The implications of excessive permissions are far-reaching. Access to a user’s location, camera, microphone, storage, and contact list can lead to significant privacy breaches. These permissions allow travel apps to collect data that may be used for purposes beyond the user’s control or knowledge, potentially leading to misuse or unauthorized sharing of personal information.

Warmenhoven warns that the data collected by travel apps could be exploited in ways that extend beyond targeted advertisements. “Users should always consider whether the app needs certain data to do its job before tapping ‘Accept,'” he advises. This caution is essential given the rising concerns over data privacy and the increasing number of data breaches reported globally.

How to Safeguard Your Privacy

To protect your privacy while using travel apps, consider these expert recommendations:

1. Download from Official Stores: Ensure you download travel apps from official app stores. Unofficial sources may not have the necessary security checks, increasing the risk of downloading modified or malicious apps.

2. Read the Privacy Policy: Before downloading an app, review its privacy policy to understand what information it will track and share with third parties. If the privacy terms are unsatisfactory, use the service via its website instead.

3. Manage Data Permissions: Upon downloading an app, scrutinize the permissions it requests. Disable any unnecessary permissions. Regularly review and adjust the permissions for installed apps, focusing on sensitive permissions like camera, microphone, storage, location, and contacts.

4. Avoid Social Network Logins: Do not sign into apps using your social media accounts. This practice can lead to data cross-collection between the app and your social media profile.

5. Delete Unused Apps: Regularly clean up your device by deleting apps you no longer use. Even when not in use, these apps may continue to collect data in the background.

The convenience offered by travel apps comes with hidden privacy costs. Over 28% of requested permissions are deemed excessive, so users must remain vigilant and proactive in managing their data privacy. By following the expert advice outlined above, travellers can better protect their personal information while still enjoying the benefits of digital travel solutions.

For more detailed insights and to ensure your privacy, visit NordVPN’s comprehensive guide on safeguarding your digital footprint while travelling.

You can enjoy your travels without compromising your privacy by staying informed and cautious.

Written by: Soo James

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