Android Application Permissions??

[Der Meister]

I just switched over to Android 4.3 on a Galaxy Note 3. I have been using Apple up until now so this is my first android device. I couldn't help but notice some of the application permissions, this particular app: Knox Notification Manager. Below I mention a few permissions:

"directly call phone numbers: Allows the app to call phone numbers without your intervention. This may result in unexpected charges or calls...
"read phone status and identity"
"read your text messages"
"receive text messages"
"send text messages: Allows the app to send SMS messages without your consent..."
"take pictures and video: allows app to take pictures and video without your consent..."
"Record audio without your consent..."

"control your entire phone without you ever knowing...?"


Can someone please explain to me why I shouldn't remove my sim card and the battery as fast as possible and dump the phone in the pool?

[Hagan]

I've seen many an app with these restrictions. Can't understand why.

[Mister 44]

You are right to be paranoid about the permissions granted to apps, Der Meister. You should also read the comments and check the ratings of an app (especially games) in the play store before you install it. And get an anti-virus for your devices. I've used Avast and I am pretty happy with it.

Back to Knox. I've had to google it 'cause it's not available in the play store and I've never seen it. Turns out it is an app from Samsung for some of its flagship devices. I suspect that "Knox Notification Manager" is just a small part of the big picture.
In short (if I understand the stuff I read correctly), what it does is create a type of virtual machine that allows you to split your work and personal environments on the same device. I suspect that the permissions are necessary for you to use your phone features from within the VM. You make a call and Knox passes the request on to the operating system from within the VM. Same with camera, audio recorder etc. All this in the name of transparency for the user.
Knox is a Samsung app, so it is unlikely to be dangerous. It is just another piece of bloatware, in my opinion and unless you really need it, get rid of it (if you can).

http://www.androidoverload.com/2013/11/04/samsung-knox/

[Der Meister]

Thanks Mister 44. Your response is much appreciated I got a free android license when I bought Kaspersky Internet Security two weeks ago and that seems to do the job quite well. I'll keep my eye on those permissions!