B2 Reading Test – Data Privacy in Everyday Apps
Learn how apps collect and use data. Practice B2 Reading with questions on details, inference, and cause–effect.
Read the passage and decide if each statement is True (T) or False (F).
Many everyday apps collect more data than users realize. A weather app may request precise location to show hyper-local forecasts, but it might also share that location with advertising partners unless you opt out. Fitness and note-taking apps sometimes request contacts or microphone access for “social features,” even when the core service doesn’t require them.
Some companies say they “anonymize” data; however, combinations of location, time, and device details can allow re-identification when matched with other datasets. Encryption helps protect data in transit and at rest, but it does not stop an app from collecting information before encryption is applied.
Privacy settings vary widely. A few apps offer clear dashboards to limit tracking and reset ad IDs; others hide options behind multiple screens or use dark patterns—confusing design that nudges people to accept broad permissions. System-level controls can help: turning off background location, restricting Bluetooth scans, and reviewing app permissions after updates.
Good digital hygiene includes reading the purpose of each permission, denying anything unrelated to the core function, and checking privacy labels or independent reviews. Updates can improve security, but they may also introduce new tracking. Ultimately, the best protection is a habit: review what data an app truly needs, and adjust settings to match your comfort level.
Some apps may share your precise location with advertisers unless you opt out.
Fitness or note-taking apps never ask for microphone access.
Anonymized data can sometimes be linked back to individuals when combined with other datasets.
Encryption prevents an app from collecting information in the first place.
All apps provide simple, transparent dashboards for privacy controls.
“Dark patterns” are designs that make users more likely to accept broad permissions.
System-level settings can help limit tracking, such as turning off background location.
App updates always reduce tracking and never add new data collection.
It’s recommended to deny permissions that are unrelated to an app’s core function.
Reviewing privacy labels or independent reviews can support better privacy decisions