TLDR
Pause and evaluate app permissions and cookie requests before accepting.
Grant essential access (i.e. banking app needing camera access) but question unnecessary requests (i.e. gaming app asking for contacts).
Accept essential cookies for smoother browsing but limit third-party cookies that track activity across sites.
Review settings regularly and customize preferences.
Trust your instincts – deny intrusive requests and adjust later if needed.
It’s a moment you know all too well – you’re downloading an app or browsing a website when a pop-up appears: Allow access? Accept cookies?
In everyday life, many digital users will move quickly past these pop-ups and tap “accept” or “allow” just to get where they’re going. But these prompts are more than formalities – they are small, but important, decisions about your personal data.
The good news is that you don’t need to overthink every click – a little awareness goes a long way. Here’s how to understand what you’re agreeing to, and how to make choices that work for you.
Understanding app permissions
What are app permissions?
App permissions define what parts of your device an app can access – like your location, camera, contacts, microphone or files. When you grant access, you’re allowing the app to collect and use that data. Some permissions are essential to how the app works. Others… not so much.
When permissions make sense
Some access requests are reasonable – and in fact necessary for the app to function properly. For example:
- A banking app needs access to your camera to deposit cheques.
- A messaging app needs access to your contacts to send messages.
- A navigation app needs access to your location to provide directions.
These permissions ultimately support the core functionality of the app and improve your experience.
A simple way to evaluate permissions
Most app permissions are there to make things work smoothly. Still, if a request feels unrelated to what the app does, it’s worth taking a closer look.
| Permission type | When it’s helpful | When it’s worth thinking twice |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Maps, ridesharing, fitness tracking | Shopping apps tracking your location in the background |
| Camera | Mobile banking, QR scanning, video calls | A calculator or currency converter requesting camera access |
| Contacts | Messaging or social apps | A game or photo filter app asking to access your full contact list |
| Microphone | Voice notes, calls, virtual assistants | A puzzle game or note-taking app requesting microphone access |
| Storage/ files | Photo editing, document uploads | A simple utility app (i.e. flashlight) requesting access to all files |
A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself: Does this permission clearly support the app’s purpose?
When to pause before clicking “allow”
Not all permission requests are necessary. Some apps ask for more access than they need, often to collect additional data.
Because some permissions can introduce real risks, it’s a smart idea to slow down before clicking “allow.” Here are a few examples:
- Background access: Some permissions allow apps to collect data even when you’re not actively using them.
- Location tracking: Continuous access can build a detailed picture of where you live, work and spend time.
- Camera and microphone access: In rare cases, apps can misuse this access to record audio or video without your awareness.
- Contacts access: Your address book can be used for marketing – or even for phishing attempts targeting people you know.
- File access: Photos and documents may contain sensitive personal or financial information.
You don’t need to avoid permissions altogether – but being selective and intentional about what permissions you do grant can boost your digital security.
Understanding cookies
The basics of cookies
Cookies are small pieces of data stored in your browser. They help websites remember things about you, such as login details, preferences or items in your cart.
Their widespread use – and the pop-ups you now see everywhere – largely stems from privacy regulations like the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which requires websites to give users more transparency and control over how their data is collected.
First-party vs. third-party cookies
Not all cookies serve the same purpose – or are managed by the same parties:
- First-party cookies are set by the website you’re visiting. They help with things like staying logged in or saving your preferences.
- Third-party cookies, meanwhile, are set by external parties, often for tracking and advertising across multiple sites.
The distinction is important because third-party cookies can track your activity across multiple websites – not just the one you’re currently visiting.
What happens when you accept cookies?
By clicking “accept” when presented with that inevitable cookie pop-up, you may be allowing websites to:
- Remember your preferences and login details
- Track your browsing activity
- Personalize content and ads
Some cookies make your experience smoother and more efficient. Others, however, allow your data to be collected and shared more widely than you might expect.
| When cookies are helpful | When to be more selective |
|---|---|
| Faster logins – no need to re-enter credentials | When a site pushes “Accept All” without clear options to customize |
| Personalized experience – content is tailored to your interests | When third-party cookies are enabled, as your data may be shared with unknown external parties |
| Shopping convenience – saved carts and preferences | When you’re on an unencrypted website (no lock icon), where data may not be securely protected |
Keep in mind, you don’t have to reject all cookies – but you don’t have to accept them all either.
How to stay in control: Digital privacy best practices
You don’t need to be a privacy expert to make smart choices online. A few simple habits can help you stay in control without adding friction to your day.
- Pause before you accept
Avoid accepting cookies and allowing app permissions by default. If a permission or cookie request feels unrelated, it’s okay to question it – and it’s okay to say no.
- Customize your choices
Look for options like “Essential Only” or “Manage Preferences” on websites. For apps, choosing “While Using the App” instead of “Always Allow” keeps access tied to when you actually need it.
- Check your settings from time to time
Permissions aren’t permanent. A quick review every few months can help you spot anything that no longer makes sense.
- Trust your instincts
If something feels overly intrusive or unnecessary, trust that instinct. You can always grant access later if you change your mind.
For more tips and resources on protecting your digital data, bookmark and visit
FAQs
No. Many sites allow you to accept only essential cookies. Regulations like the GDPR were designed to give you control over your data and browsing history. Keep in mind, on some sites, some features may be limited when you refuse cookies.
Yes. You can adjust permissions anytime in your device settings.
No. Many app permissions are necessary for apps to function. The key is to make sure they align with the app’s purpose.
Look for “Manage Preferences” or “Essential Only” instead of automatically selecting “Accept All.”
Not necessarily, but it’s worth being selective. They often involve sharing your data beyond the site you’re visiting, which can reduce your control over how it’s used.
This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.
