Kindle for Android App 3.8.2 Permissions Question

[RHWright]

Sorry if this has been asked before, but search found nothing related.

Never had a need for this app, due to usage of other apps or devices, but finally came across some Amazon exclusive titles that I really want.

Rather than go to the trouble of using the tools that would make them readable on other devices, I figured I'd just use the app on my phone.

Well ...some of the permissions don't make sense for a reading app.

Sure, some are pretty standard: prevent phone from sleeping, modify contents on SD card.

The one that has me puzzled is Your accounts: Add or remove accounts, create accounts and set passwords, use accounts on the device.

This would seem to apply to all accounts accessed on my phone, not just my Amazon one. Why does a reader app need that type of permission? Sure, I expect a certain amount of data mining from a free app (especially from Amazon), but the ability to know my log in & password---& be able to change them---for Facebook, GMail, my B&N account, etc. seems a bit much.

Anyone have insights on this permission? Is it as fearful as I think, or am I misinterpreting it?

I got nowhere emailing Amazon CS. They said to call or open a chat. Figured I'd appeal to the knowledgeable folks here at mobileread.

Thanks for any advice you have.

[Pookeysgirl]

Originally Posted by RHWright

Sorry if this has been asked before, but search found nothing related.

Never had a need for this app, due to usage of other apps or devices, but finally came across some Amazon exclusive titles that I really want.

Rather than go to the trouble of using the tools that would make them readable on other devices, I figured I'd just use the app on my phone.

Well ...some of the permissions don't make sense for a reading app.

Sure, some are pretty standard: prevent phone from sleeping, modify contents on SD card.

The one that has me puzzled is Your accounts: Add or remove accounts, create accounts and set passwords, use accounts on the device.

This would seem to apply to all accounts accessed on my phone, not just my Amazon one. Why does a reader app need that type of permission? Sure, I expect a certain amount of data mining from a free app (especially from Amazon), but the ability to know my log in & password---& be able to change them---for Facebook, GMail, my B&N account, etc. seems a bit much.

Anyone have insights on this permission? Is it as fearful as I think, or am I misinterpreting it?

I got nowhere emailing Amazon CS. They said to call or open a chat. Figured I'd appeal to the knowledgeable folks here at mobileread.

Thanks for any advice you have.

I'm sure it's only for you to be able to change your account for Amazon through the App. I've had both the Android and Blackberry apps and have never had an issue with either. I've been using the Android app since September on my S3.

Check this thread at Android Forums, it's very informative: http://androidforums.com/android-app...g-malware.html