Disappearing apps, or vault apps, are apps that appear to be something they are not. On the surface these apps appear to be rather benign apps; however, if a password is typed into the app a storage file is opened. These apps are used to hide files or other apps from parents, spouses, and others who might have access to the particular digital device. Some common apps include “Audio Manager,” “Calculator%,” and “Vaulty.” For example, the calculator app appears to be a calculator, but the calculator pad is simply the vehicle to type in the password that permits you access to the hidden file.
Talk to your children if they have these disappearing or vault apps. Check your child’s phone for these apps and if they possess them then they are hiding something from you. Often times naked pictures, pornography, or salacious texts are hidden in these apps. While your child might find this overly intrusive, it is our obligation as parents to protect them from engaging in inappropriate behavior.
