Vault
Risk Score
High
App Details
According to the developers, "Vault is a mobile app designed to hide private pictures, videos, sms, call logs and contacts on your phone". The app also privides users with a Private Browser and the ability to set up multiple (and fake) password protected vaults in which to store secret content and contacts. Stealth mode can be activated, so that the Vault icon is hidden from the device home screen (disguised as a camera) and can only be accessed once a passcode is typed. A photo is taken of any "intruders" who enter the wrong passcode.
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.