android.permission.CAMERA

Risk Level: CRITICAL

What does it do?

Allows the app to access the device’s camera sensors (front and back) to take photos or record video.

Why is it dangerous?

1. Spying (Creepware): Malicious apps can silently take photos of you or your surroundings and upload them to a server. This is a common feature in “Stalkerware”.
2. Blackmail: Attackers may capture compromising photos and demand a ransom (Sextortion).
3. Facial Recognition: Collecting biometric data without consent.

Legitimate Uses

• Camera apps (Instagram, Snapchat).
• Video calling apps (Zoom, Skype).
• QR Code scanners.

Verdict

Deny for any app that doesn’t need to see you (e.g., Flashlight, Calculator, Music Player).