Deleting an app that is taking up precious space on your device is always a good idea, especially if it could be spying on you. However, some apps require more than just pressing the delete button. You might think that deleting an app means you have dumped it. However, the reality is different. Deleting an app does not mean you have uninstalled it. Sometimes, it can still be spying on you in the background, which can leave your device vulnerable or cause other issues.
Therefore, if you’re wondering what happens to your data after you delete an app, this blog is for you.
Deleting an app doesn’t always delete your data.
When you click “delete” on the app, your phone removes the app files from your device. It will free up space, and the app icon disappears. However, here is the downside of it. Your personal data might still exist on the company’s servers. It does not mean that once an app is deleted, the relationship with the app and the company that owns it is over.
For example,
If you delete a social media app such as Instagram, the photos, messages, and account details might still be stored on Instagram’s servers.
Why?
It is because deleting the app only removes it from your phone but not from the company’s database.
Where Does Your Data Go?
Whenever you sign up for an app, you create an account. This account is linked to your personal information. Most apps save this data on their servers so you can log in from any device.
If you delete the app, your account and data may still exist on the app’s servers. The company may use it for things such as ads, service improvements, and analytics. Some apps retain your data for months or even years, unless you specifically request its deletion.
It seems scary, right?
However, don’t worry! There are ways to control this. We will discuss that in the coming sections. Let us first understand why apps keep your data.
Why Do Apps Keep Your Data?
One question surely pops into your mind – why can’t they delete my information when I remove the app?
Here are some valid reasons.
- They keep it for account recovery. If you reinstall the app later, your old data helps you pick up where you left off.
- Some companies are required to retain data for a certain period due to laws.
- Companies use your personal data to understand users and improve services.
Unfortunately, this means your data can remain on their servers even if you no longer use the app.
How are Some Apps Troublesome?
Some apps are problematic. Therefore, experts recommend that you either immediately delete those apps or never install them. You need to be careful of apps that need access to your camera, photos, microphone, documents, and more.
Ask yourself that does this application truly require all this access? Is this app essential?
Before you click the download button, look for some warning signs that explains why you should not trust such apps..
What are the Privacy Risks?
If your personal data stays with the company, there are chances of data breaches in which hackers might steal information from the company’s servers.
Some apps even do third-party sharing. It means they share data with advertisers or partners.
That’s the reason knowing how to delete your data completely is important.
How Can You Ensure Your Data Is Deleted?
Here are some easy steps to ensure your data is deleted.
1. Check your app’s privacy policy.
Most apps explain how they handle your data. Therefore, look for “data retention” or “account deletion” sections.
2. Delete your account before removing the app.
Many apps offer an option to delete your account in the settings. It usually erases your data from their servers.
3. Contact customer support
If you cannot find an option to delete your account, send an email to the company and ask for data deletion.
4. Revoke permissions
If the app had access to your contacts, photos, or location, ensure to revoke these permissions before uninstalling it.
5. Use data privacy tools.
Use the data privacy tools to find and delete your personal data from multiple websites and apps.
Do Different Apps Handle Personal Data Differently?
Yes, different apps handle personal data differently. Social media apps, shopping apps, and games all follow different rules.
For example,
Social media apps keep your data even after you delete the app. Therefore, you need to deactivate or delete your account.
Game apps store your progress on their servers. Therefore, whenever you reinstall them, it brings back your game data.
Shopping apps keep your purchase history for legal reasons.
Epilogue
In summary, deleting an app does not mean your data will be deleted instantly. It usually stays on company servers until you take extra steps. Therefore, if you care about your privacy, ensure you delete your account inside the app. Besides, read the privacy policy and contact support if needed.
Remember that your personal data is valuable, so take control of it mindfully.
