Private Photo Vault – Pic Safe
Risk Score
High
App Details
This app protects users' "special" photos and videos. It provides users with a password protected app entry and provides a break-in report (photo and GPS) in the instance that the wrong password is entered in an attempt to gain access. The app sits as a photo vault - however, users can set up a decoy password which when entered, opens up a fake secret vault.
Why is it a risk?
Vault apps such as this can become problematic as they facilitate the hidden storage, creation and transfer of photo and video content which may place the individual at risk. Vaults are often used to hide intimate content and pornography, and the nature of the app gallery means that image detection software is not effective in most cases. These apps are not suitable for children as parents will have no control or knowledge of the content stored within (if parents are aware that their child has one). Moreover, many of these apps are designed to allow the user to create a "decoy" account, so that in the event a parent becomes aware the child has the app and forces them to log in and show content, the child may enter the decoy password and a fake gallery is displayed.