A new wave of apps is coming to the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, and while parents may soon despise them, those who need to hide valuable information will certainly appreciate them. There are many tech gadgets that actually protect privacy, and Android and Apple also offer their own security features (although which one is more secure than the other is debatable). However, be aware that there are now apps that hide content while disguising themselves as something innocent.
Known as “locker apps” or “vault apps,” these are essentially apps designed to look like something discrete (in this case, the Stock Calculator app on a device), but users can enter a password that gives them the ability to store and access various information, including apps, photos, and more. If you don’t know the code, the app will act exactly like the program it’s imitating, and some even offer the ability to take a photo of anyone who might try to break in.
Since some of these apps have panic options that revert the safe to a simple state, these tools can be a nightmare for parents. Still, for adults, vault apps can provide incredible protection for those who need to protect sensitive information. People living in dangerous environments may particularly benefit from the ability to hide certain information. Whether you need one or are looking for one, we’ve got the details below.
Why Vault Apps are so important
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In the Google Play Store, Calculator Vault – App Hider is just one example of a vault app, while the Apple Store has at least one known as Calculator Lock – Secure Vault. Although they offer different features (and in-app purchases), both essentially perform the same function: hiding content while masquerading as the Stock Calculator app. Since they can act exactly like the program they’re imitating, spotting them on a phone can be tricky, but there are signs.
To start, look for multiple calculator apps on a device, as it might be suspicious if someone downloaded a second one. On an Android, swipe up from the bottom of the Home screen to check the app drawer for anything suspicious. On an iPhone, swipe right on the Home screen until you reach the App Library to see all the apps. You can also search for anything suspicious online, like the names of certain apps, to see what the internet has to say.
For adults who really need a safe or locker, be sure to do additional research on it before trusting it with important information. Be sure to check what other users are saying about how the app works, especially how it actually hides information. Bonus points if he can photograph the intruders. Remember that you are entrusting your information to a third party. If you really value your privacy, you might also want to check out these everyday apps that can track your activity.
