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You’ve probably checked for age ratings, double-checked screen time limits, and made sure your child isn’t exposed to inappropriate content. But there’s a hidden digital threat that flies under most parents’ radar—apps your kids use that secretly collect data. Even harmless-looking games, learning platforms, or creative apps can gather personal information like location, device habits, browsing behavior, or even voice recordings. What’s worse is that this data is often sold, shared, or stored without your knowledge, sometimes violating privacy laws meant to protect children. Here are 9 popular apps parents trust—but should definitely look into more closely.
1. TikTok
While officially recommended for users 13 and older, many younger kids still find their way onto TikTok. The app has faced multiple investigations and fines for tracking user data, including information from minors. Among apps your kids use that secretly collect data, TikTok is a top offender due to how it tracks usage habits, device identifiers, and even location information. Even in “private” mode, the app gathers metadata from video views and interactions. Parents should explore TikTok’s Family Pairing options or consider alternatives with more transparent data practices.
2. YouTube and YouTube Kids
YouTube Kids was created to offer a safer space for young viewers, but that doesn’t mean it’s free from data collection. The platform has been accused of collecting viewing history and device info, even when parental controls are on. For many families, this is one of the most trusted apps your kids use that secretly collect data, simply because it feels child-friendly on the surface. Keep in mind that any personalized recommendations come from data tracking, which may include search terms and watch behavior. Consider using ad-free options or limiting permissions in your child’s profile settings.
3. Roblox
Roblox is wildly popular for its games, avatars, and in-game purchases—but it also collects a lot of data. This includes chat history, location data, friends lists, and how your child interacts within the game. Like many apps your kids use that secretly collect data, it runs targeted ads and stores behavioral profiles to better monetize user activity. While it offers parental controls, it still tracks a surprising amount of behind-the-scenes data. Regularly review your child’s privacy settings and use a restricted account whenever possible.
4. Snapchat
Snapchat is often used by tweens and teens, despite being labeled 13+. The app is known for its disappearing messages, but that doesn’t mean your child’s data disappears with them. Snapchat collects contact lists, device identifiers, usage data, and even geolocation, especially if Snap Map is enabled. It’s one of those apps your kids use that secretly collect data even when they aren’t actively posting. Disable Snap Map, turn off location services, and have a conversation with your child about privacy before allowing use.
5. Zoom
Now commonly used for virtual school or chats with family, Zoom might not strike you as a data risk. But like other platforms, it collects usage logs, device information, and meeting metadata—sometimes more than you realize. For younger users, Zoom’s data handling has faced criticism, especially in education settings where consent isn’t always clearly outlined. Among apps your kids use that secretly collect data, Zoom’s presence in classrooms means parents should understand what’s shared and what’s optional. Check your child’s school settings or personal account privacy policy to see what data is being stored.
6. Duolingo
This popular language-learning app is educational, engaging, and surprisingly aggressive with its data tracking. Duolingo collects device info, user behavior, and performance analytics. While not as flashy as other apps your kids use that secretly collect data, it quietly builds user profiles to improve engagement and advertising. Even if your child is learning French or Spanish, the app may be learning more about them than you’d like. Be sure to review data-sharing permissions in the account settings and avoid logging in with social media accounts.
7. Minecraft (Mobile Version)
Minecraft on mobile devices, especially the Bedrock Edition, is connected to Microsoft accounts and comes with data collection tied to Xbox services. It tracks user activity, session lengths, and online interactions—even in creative mode. Though it’s not malicious, Minecraft remains one of the apps your kids use that secretly collect data, particularly through in-game purchases and online play. Parents should explore Family Safety tools in Microsoft’s dashboard and limit multiplayer access for younger players.
8. Facebook Messenger Kids
Facebook (now Meta) created Messenger Kids as a safer alternative to adult messaging platforms, but data concerns remain. While it’s promoted as COPPA-compliant, the app still gathers usage data, contacts, and interaction metrics. Among apps your kids use that secretly collect data, this one raises eyebrows simply because of its ties to Meta’s larger advertising ecosystem. Although it offers some strong parental controls, be mindful of what’s shared and how it’s stored. Monitor conversations regularly and avoid linking accounts that could expose more family data.
9. Candy Crush and Other “Free” Games
Many free-to-play games, including Candy Crush and similar titles, rely heavily on third-party advertising networks. These games track in-app behavior, device IDs, and location in order to serve personalized ads. Since they’re marketed as harmless and fun, they fall into the category of apps your kids use that secretly collect data without most parents noticing. Avoid logging in with a social media account, decline ad tracking permissions, and keep the games in guest mode when possible.
Knowledge is the Best Parental Control
When it comes to screen time, the real risk isn’t always what your child is watching—it’s what the app is watching them. Many apps your kids use that secretly collect data hide behind colorful graphics and educational content, but still gather information that can be used, shared, or sold. As a parent, you don’t have to avoid screens altogether—you just need to be a little more data-aware. Reviewing app permissions, checking privacy settings, and reading the fine print are small steps that make a big difference in your child’s digital safety.
Were you surprised by how much data these apps collect? Which ones do you monitor or avoid at home? Let’s talk privacy in the comments.
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The post The Truth About Screens: 9 Apps Your Kids Use That Secretly Collect Data appeared first on Kids Ain't Cheap.
