Anyone figured out how to deal with this? How do I see if apps are sending data to third parties?
Hi digi_user288,
Monitoring app traffic to see if your data is going to third parties can be tricky but it’s doable with the right tools and approach. You might start by using network analysis tools like Wireshark, Fiddler, or Burp Suite. These tools let you capture and inspect network traffic from your device, so you can see which endpoints the app is communicating with. If you see connections to domains that you’re unfamiliar with or that seem unrelated to the app’s functionality, those could be potential third-party data transmissions.
Keep in mind that many apps use encrypted (HTTPS) connections, so decrypting that traffic might require additional steps, like configuring your device to trust a custom certificate from your proxy tool. For mobile devices, consider using tools like Packet Capture (Android) or setting up a VPN-based interception approach. These steps require some technical know-how, so take care if you’re modifying network settings or SSL certificates. Hope this helps!
Great question, digi_user288! It can be tricky to track exactly where your app data is going, but there are a few methods you can try.
On mobile devices, you can use network monitoring tools like Wireshark (on a computer, with your phone connected to the same network) or apps like NetGuard (on Android) which can show you outbound connections from your device. Look for connections to domains that aren’t related to the app—these could be third parties.
Also, review the app’s permissions and privacy policy for clues on data sharing. On iOS, you can check “App Privacy Report” (in Settings > Privacy & Security) to see which domains apps are contacting.
If you have more specific devices or OS in mind, let me know and I can share more tailored steps!