please explain new Android app permissions 2.4.6_1829

kdc123 — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 02:44:44 GMT

I have become aware that a new version of the Android Arlo app is available (2.4.6_18293) . But, this app wants more permissions to run.

Given this, I thought it would be reasonable if Netgear explained why this app needs certain permissions:

Device and app history - retrieve running apps / read sensitive log data
Camera - take pictures and videos
Microphone - record audio [NEW]
Bluetooth - various permissions [NEW]
download files without notification
read home settings and shortcuts
change network connectivity
connect and disconnect from WiFi
disable screen lock
draw over other apps
modify system settings

I'm struggling to understand why this app needs some of these permissions. I am a customer, and I am pretty weirded out by some of the permissions. This shouldn't be so -- again, I am a customer, and Netgear should be providing me with an experience that makes me comfortable. In particular, I can't find anything on Netgear/Arlo's website that explains in any detailed way why these permissions are needed.

I wonder if this software has been audited in a serious way? Perhaps by running it throught something like TaintDroid?

The permissions being asked for by this app are very concerning.

Re: please explain new Android app permissions 2.4.6_1829

jguerdat — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 13:13:49 GMT

Which ones are you weirded out about?

topic please explain new Android app permissions 2.4.6_1829 in Arlo

please explain new Android app permissions 2.4.6_1829

Re: please explain new Android app permissions 2.4.6_1829