Imagine your granddaughter tells you about a fantastic brain game she has been playing, or your neighbor recommends an app that helps keep track of medication. The app interests you, but you are still unsure about its safety or whether it will work on your phone or tablet.
Apps typically make life easier, more fun, and more connected. Still, you need to choose and install them safely among thousands that exist out there to avoid misleading ones designed to trick users into giving away personal information or installing unnecessary software.
That’s why we wrote this guide to help older adults and beginners navigate their devices. You will learn:
- How to tell the difference between safe and risky apps.
- The safest way to find and install apps on both Android and Apple devices.
- The red flags that should make you think twice before tapping “Download.”
- A list of trusted apps that many seniors find useful.
By the end, you will feel confident adding new apps to your device without risking your privacy, your money, or your peace of mind.
What Is an App and Why You Might Want One?
An app (short for “application”) is a small program you can add to your phone or tablet to perform a specific task. Each one has a different purpose.
For example:
- Zoom lets you make video calls with family and friends.
- BBC News keeps you informed with reliable updates.
- Libby allows you to borrow free eBooks and audiobooks from your local library.
- Medisafe helps you manage medications with timely reminders.
The right apps can help you:
- Stay connected with loved ones through video calls or messaging.
- Keep your mind active with puzzles, crosswords, or educational games.
- Simplify everyday tasks like making shopping lists or checking your bank account.
Some of the most valuable apps are entirely free, while others may cost a small one-time fee or have optional subscription features.
Tip from experience: Over the years, I have helped many seniors set up their devices, and I have seen how the right apps can make a big difference in daily life.
However, I have also seen how confusing and even risky it can be when you download the wrong apps. Always learn safe downloading before you tap “Install.”
Why Safety Matters Before Downloading?
Many apps are helpful, entertaining, or convenient. In contrast, some others can mislead or trick you into sharing personal information, downloading unwanted software, or granting unnecessary access to sensitive features on your devices.
Common dangers include apps that mimic popular ones, such as a fake “Zoom Meetings” app that steals your information.
- Flashlight apps that ask for too much access, putting your privacy at risk.
- Apps with low ratings, few downloads, or no updates in over a year may not function properly.
The Federal Trade Commission recommends protecting your personal information from hackers and scammers to stay safe online.
Tip: Always check the developer’s name in the app store to make sure it matches the official company.
How to Safely Find and Install Apps?
Use the official app store to install apps safely on your device. This ensures that the app has passed basic security checks and comes from a verified source.
For Android Users (Google Play Store).
- Open the Play Store and look for the white shopping bag icon with a colorful play button.
- Tap the search bar at the top and type the name (e.g., “Libby library app”).
- Check the app details:
- Developer name matches the official company.
- Rating is typically four stars or higher.
- Thousands of downloads.
- Recently updated.
- Tap Install and wait for the download to finish.
- The button will change to “Open” when ready to use.
Related Content: A Beginner’s Guide to Using Smartphones for Seniors.
For iPhone and iPad Users (Apple App Store)
- Open the App Store (blue icon with a white “A”).
- Tap the magnifying glass icon at the bottom right and type the app’s name.
- Review the details:
- The developer’s name is correct.
- High rating and many reviews.
- Recently updated.
- Download securely.
- Once installed, tap “Open” to start.
Red Flags to Watch For Before Installing an App.
Even apps from the official Google Play Store or Apple App Store can be outdated, poorly designed, or even intentionally harmful.
This quick checklist will help you to spot trouble before you tap Download.
Very few downloads – An app with only a few hundred installs may be untested or unsafe. Established apps usually have thousands or millions of downloads.
Unknown or suspicious developer – Unknown company name or one that looks strange (e.g., “funnydev92”) is typically a warning sign.
Low ratings or many 1-star reviews – Apps with less than three stars often have problems like frequent crashes, spammy ads, or poor performance.
Bad or unclear reviews – Stay away from reviews that complain about scams, hidden charges, or data theft, even if some are positive.
Not updated recently – An App with the “last updated” date of more than a year old might no longer work properly or be secure.
Spelling or grammar errors in the app name or description – Such errors are typically signs of scam apps trying to appear legitimate.
Requests for unnecessary permissions – Apps requesting access to your microphone, camera, or text messages are major privacy red flags.
| ❌ Red Flag | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
| Very few downloads | “Only 100+ installs” or “New app”. | May be untested or unsafe. |
| No recognizable developer | No company name or a strange one like “funnydev92”. | Bad English in the app name or description. |
| Low ratings | Under three stars or many 1-star reviews. | Signals poor performance or bugs. |
| Bad reviews | Complaints about crashes, ads, or scams. | Real user feedback is gold. |
| Not recently updated | Last updated over a year ago. | Old apps may not work or be secure. |
| Spelling/grammar errors | Bad English in the app name or description. | Often a sign of scam apps. |
| Unnecessary permissions | Bad English in the app name or description. | A big privacy red flag. |
Examples of Unsafe Permissions.
Your device will often ask for permission to access certain features, such as your camera, microphone, or location, when you install a new app.
However, some of these requests can be legitimate, while others are entirely unnecessary and could put your privacy at risk.
A few examples that should make you pause include:
- Flashlight apps asking for microphone or contact access.
→ A flashlight only needs permission to control your phone’s light, nothing else. - Calculator apps requesting your location.
→ A calculator doesn’t need to know your location. - Games asking for access to your camera or text messages.
→ Unless the game uses your camera explicitly for gameplay (like augmented reality), this is suspicious.
Related Content: Simple Tablet Setup Guide for Seniors.
Do this if it happens:
- Deny the permission when prompted.
- Uninstall the app immediately if it doesn’t work.
- Review and adjust app permissions in your device’s settings regularly.
Tip: You can check or change app permissions at any time:
- Android: Settings → Apps → Permissions.
- iPhone/iPad: Settings → Privacy & Security → [Permission Type].
What Safe Apps Typically Look Like?
Safe and trustworthy belong to well-known and reputable developers, such as Google, Apple, Zoom, or OverDrive. These companies typically produce reliable products to protect the users’ privacy.
Such apps also have a large number of downloads, often in the thousands or millions, which shows that many people trust and use them regularly.
High average ratings, usually four stars or higher, supported by genuine, detailed reviews from real users, are other promising signs.
The description must be clear, professional, and free from spelling or grammar mistakes to explain precisely what the app does without making unrealistic promises.
Developers of safe apps also update them typically within the past six months to ensure ongoing security and functionality.
- Created by a reputable, well-known developer.
- Thousands or millions of downloads.
- High rating of (four stars or higher) with genuine reviews.
- Clear, professional description with no spelling errors.
- Recently updated (within the last six months.
Tips for Staying Safe Long-Term.
Below are some habits to help protect your privacy and keep your phone or tablet running smoothly:
Keep your device and apps updated – Updates often fix security weaknesses and improve performance. Turn on automatic updates if possible. You can also check manually:
- Android: Settings → System → Software Update.
- iPhone/iPad: Settings → General → Software Update.
Delete unused apps – Old apps you no longer use can take up space and may become security risks over time. Press and hold the app icon, then select “Uninstall” (Android) or “Remove App” (iPhone/iPad).
Downloading from genuine websites – Ignore pop-ups claiming your device is “infected” or “needs cleaning” to scam you. Only install apps from the official app store.
Review app permissions regularly – Go into your device settings to see which apps have access to your camera, location, microphone, or contacts, and remove unnecessary permissions.
Use a lock screen password or biometric security – A passcode, fingerprint, or Face ID can prevent strangers from accessing your device if it’s lost or stolen.
Consider extra protection – Security apps like Norton Mobile Security, Avast, or Bitdefender can add another layer of safety against malware and phishing attempts.
Recommended Safe Apps for Seniors.
Safe, reliable, and easy-to-use apps make a smartphone or tablet far more helpful.
Zoom – Zoom Video Communications developed this secure video-calling app to allow individuals to connect for various purposes, including staying in contact with family and friends.
Libby – OverDrive created the Libby app to help book lovers connect directly to their local library, borrow eBooks and audiobooks at no cost. The app is straightforward to use; search for your library and sign in with your library card to start borrowing.
Medisafe – This platform offers a reliable way to keep track of your medications and manage your health adequately. It sends gentle reminders for every dose and can notify a family member if you miss one.
Google Maps – Google developed this app to offer real-time driving directions, public transit routes, and the ability to share your location with loved ones in case of an emergency.
BBC News – This app delivers transparent, accurate reporting without misleading headlines; you can even customize it to follow your favorite topics.
Wordscapes – Studio PeopleFun developed this app to provide relaxing yet stimulating word puzzles that help keep the brain sharp. You don’t need an account to get started.
Related Content: A Simple Guide to Top Emergency Alert Devices for Seniors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
What if I accidentally download the wrong app?
Delete an app immediately if you install and realize it asks for unusual information that can compromise your online safety. On Android, press and hold the app icon, then tap “Uninstall.” On iPhone or iPad, press and hold the app until you see a menu or the icons start shaking, then tap “Remove App” or “Delete App.” You can also ask a trusted friend or family member for help.
Are paid apps safe to use?
Paid and free apps can be safe, provided you download them from trusted sources such as the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store, which ensures reputable developers created them. Always check the developer’s name, read recent reviews, and confirm the price before making a purchase.
What’s the difference between free and paid apps?
Free apps typically cost nothing to download and may include ads or offer in-app purchases, while paid apps require a one-time fee or subscription but often come without ads and may provide additional features. The safety of either type depends on the developer’s reputation and the source of the download.
Final Thoughts.
Learning how to download and install apps safely empowers you to enjoy the benefits of modern technology while keeping your personal information secure. Whether you use Zoom to connect with family, Libby to enjoy your favorite books, or Medisafe to manage your health, the right apps can make your daily life easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
Stick with official app stores, choose reputable developers, pay attention to ratings, reviews, and update histories. Stay alert to red flags, and practice the long-term safety habits outlined in this guide to confidently explore new apps without worrying about scams or security risks.