In Pictures: 9 iPhone and iPad apps that invade your privacy, and 1 that doesn't

Most iPhone and iPad apps appear harmless and fun, but don't fall for them. Some apps are virtual Trojan horses that swipe personal data when you're not looking. Appthority has put together a list of some of the worst offenders and you may be shocked to learn that a couple of the most popular apps made the list, such as Facebook and Angry Birds Star Wars. Be sure to check out the app at the end of the list for the one most honest.

By Tom Kaneshige

prev next

QR Pal

What it does: QR Pal - QR Code Scanner and Barcode Reader (free) is an iPhone app that lets users scan, store and share QR codes, and compare product prices with a built-in barcode reader. QR Pal rewards users with monthly cash prices.

What are the risks: • Not compiled as a Position Independent Executable (PIE), which could expose the app to memory corruption attacks. • Sends some sensitive data in clear text (no encryption). • Can access a user's Location, Calendar and Contacts Book. • Includes file paths to source code files in debug information, stored within the app's executable. These file paths often include usernames or other information related to the app developer or development company.

3 of 11