‘Android games can track children’s locations’

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.”