Bitdefender has reported an increased number of Android apps that request unnecessary permissions and use them to monitor the location of children without their parents’ consent.
A recent study by the security software firm found that over 11 per cent of British children receive an Android device by their 7th birthday.
Bitdefender says this poses a risk of malware infections and SMS fraud targeting users who are still only learning to read.
Some free apps that target kids can track or access geo-locations without requesting information that only parents can provide, claims the firm.
“Why would an alphabet game require a child’s’ precise GPS and network location?” commented Catalin Cosoi, Chief Security Strategist at Bitdefender.
“Of course, it’s to make money by sending these details to aggressive third-party advertisers. Despite legislation and common sense, games for children still collect huge quantities of personal information about children without parental consent.”

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