How to See What Data Apps Collect from You

By August Garry Updated 09/19/2024

* This article is from our Tip of the Day newsletter. . *

If you're concerned about the data apps are collecting on you, every app in the App Store is required to detail the data the app collects from you and how it's being used. The App Privacy section can be found on the app's product page in the App Store. Let's go over how to find it.

Why You'll Love This Tip:

  • Find out if an app is collecting personal data.
  • Make informed decisions about which apps you install.

How to See the Data an App Collects from You in the App Store

System Requirements

To use this tip, you'll need an iPhone 6S or newer running iOS 15.2 or later, or an iPad running iPadOS 15.2 or newer.

The App Privacy section goes hand-in-hand with the App Tracking Transparency feature. While App Tracking Transparency lets you make an informed decision about whether or not you'll allow an app to track you across other apps and websites, the App Privacy section shows you what data you're agreeing to let the app collect if you opt in. Keep in mind that even if you opt out of App Tracking, the app will still collect the data listed under Data Linked to You. To learn more about your Apple devices and their privacy settings, sign up for our free Tip of the Day newsletter. Now, here's how to see an app's privacy report in the App Store:

iPhone Life
Discover your iPhone's hidden features
Get a daily tip (with screenshots and clear instructions) so you can master your iPhone in just one minute a day.
  1. Open the App Store.

    App Store
     
  2. Tap Search.

    Search
     
  3. Type in the name of the app for which you'd like to view the privacy and data-collection details.

    Search bar
     
  4. Tap on the app name or app icon (not Get or Update) to go to the product page. 

    Open product page
     
  5. Scroll down to the App Privacy section.
  6. Here you will find sections for Data Used to Track You as well as Data Linked to You. Some apps also have a Data Not Linked to You section.

    App Privacy

Having access to these lists should help you better understand what data is collected from you. If you're interested in learning more, there's usually a link at the top of each of these pages that will take you to that app developer's privacy policy.

Master your iPhone in one minute a day: Sign up here to get our FREE Tip of the Day delivered right to your inbox.

Topics

How-To
iPad
iPhone
Apps
App Store
Apple Apps
Third-Party Apps
Privacy & Security

Author Details

August Garry's picture

Author Details

August Garry

August Garry is an Associate Editor for iPhone Life. Formerly of Gartner and Software Advice, they have six years of experience writing about technology for everyday users, specializing in iPhones, HomePods, and Apple TV. As a former college writing instructor, they are passionate about effective, accessible communication, which is perhaps why they love helping readers master the strongest communication tools they have available: their iPhones. They have a degree in Russian Literature and Language from Reed College.

When they’re not writing for iPhone Life, they’re reading about maritime disasters, writing fiction, rock climbing, or walking their adorable dog, Moosh.