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Is this AI app safe?

Before you install a chatbot, photo editor or "AI" anything, answer these ten questions. Your answers stay on this device. Nothing is sent anywhere.

Did you get it from the official Play Store or App Store? Not from a link, a WhatsApp file (.apk) or a website download button. Don't install apps from links or files. Fake "invitations", "bills" and "premium unlocked" apps are a common way to steal OTPs and bank access.

Is the developer the real company? Check the name under the app title. ChatGPT is by OpenAI, Gemini by Google, Claude by Anthropic. Copycat apps borrow famous names and logos. Search for the official app from the company's own website, and compare the developer name.

Does it ask to read your SMS, use "Accessibility", or "display over other apps"? These let an app read OTPs and tap buttons for you. An AI chat or photo app never needs these. Deny them and uninstall. This is exactly how banking malware steals OTPs.

Does it ask for your OTP, UPI PIN, bank login or Aadhaar number? Inside the app, or in a chat with "support". No genuine app or support agent needs your OTP, UPI PIN or bank password. Stop and uninstall. If you shared any, call your bank and 1930.

Does it promise money, guaranteed returns, prizes or "free premium"? Earn by liking videos, double your money, a free paid plan. Too good to be true is the scam. Real AI tools charge for premium plans; they don't pay you or guarantee returns.

Does it ask for access it doesn't need, like your contacts, location or call logs? A chatbot may need the microphone for voice, but not your contacts. Allow only what the app needs for what you use. You can switch permissions off later in your phone's settings.

Does it ask you to upload photos of other people, or make images or voices of real people? Face swaps, "undress" or "nudify" apps, voice copying. Never use someone's face or voice without their consent. Apps that "undress" photos are used for harassment and can be illegal.

Does the free trial need a card or UPI AutoPay? Many trials turn into weekly or yearly charges automatically. Note the renewal date and price before you start, and cancel in the app store's Subscriptions if you don't want it. Check UPI AutoPay mandates in your UPI app.

Is it meant for your age? Many AI apps are for 13+ and some for 18+. Check the store listing or the terms. Use apps meant for your age, with a parent if you're under 18. Children's data has extra protection under India's DPDP law.

Do you know what it does with your chats, photos and voice? Look for a privacy policy, and whether you can delete your data or turn off training. Assume what you type may be stored and reviewed. Don't share private, family or work details, and look for settings to delete history.