CapCut has become a go-to video editing app for content creators to make speedy videos and TiTok and Instagram Reels. It’s a free, user-friendly, and loaded with editing features app. But with the growing privacy concerns, a big question comes to mind: Is CapCut safe to use?
This guide will walk you through what the CapCut app is, what type of data it collects from users, and what you can do to make its use safe and secure.
What is the CapCut App?
CapCut is developed by Bytedance, the same company that owns TikTok. Initially, it was launched in China and became a cornerstone of video editing in 2019. Since 2020, it has gained popularity around the globe. In 2021, CapCut made its way to Android (on the Google Play Store) and iOS (on the iOS Store).
A big reason behind its popularity is editing tools (trim, cut, merge, speed adjustment), advanced effects (filters, transitions, overlays), audio editing (music, sound effects, voiceovers), trending pre-designed templates, text and stickers (animated text, stickers, and emojis).
Its integration with TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and other social media sites adds a layer of convenience for content creators. Now, there’s no barrier between you and the social world! You can effortlessly post your edited video on social media to share with a vast audience.
CapCut and TikTok own the same parent company; both have the same privacy concerns and safety conditions. This raises a red flag for some users due to ongoing debates about user data collection on TikTok.
What Type of Data CapCut Collects About You?
When using any app, privacy is the main concern. Bytedance has briefly described the methods and type of data collection from users. The Google Play Store shows you all the terms and conditions when you sign up for the account.
Data Collection
CapCut collects personal information (name. email, address, phone number), device information (model, operating system), usage data (how you interact with the app), video and audio data you import for editing (not the final edited content), and location data (with permission).
User data is stored on servers located in various countries. ByteDance claims to comply with local data protection laws, but there have been concerns about data being accessible to the Chinese government due to the company’s origins.
The fact is this data may be traced back to the user’s ID, which raises the question of “Is CapCut safe to use”. CapCut also provides options for users to control their data, including settings for data sharing and permissions. You can request the deletion of this data.
After this, if one is comfortable using the app, go for it; otherwise, this would raise some eyebrows in the town.
Required Permission
App’s permission plays a major role in ensuring CapCut’s safety. When you first sign in, the app grants you permission for a certain level to access your device. It is important to ensure a smoother and better app working on your device. Following are the permissions that CapCut asks for:
- Gallery
- Camera
- Files and Media
- Microphone
- Storage
- Network connectivity
The permission for the camera is important for capturing new photos directly from the app and the microphone plays the role in accessing the audio files (like Hindi and Bollywood songs) saved on your phone. Once you are done editing, the edited video is saved in your gallery; that’s why storage permission is required.
These permissions are normal for video editing apps and make no red flags. However, it is always a good idea to read the app’s privacy policies before using it.
CapCut must request permission to access some data once it has been downloaded. If the app collects information you don’t want to share, you can go into your phone’s settings to change app permission for a specific app. Allow your phone to erase unwanted app permissions automatically.
How Does the CapCut App Use Your Data?
The app uses the data it collects to show you advertisements relevant to your interests and to notify you of app updates regularly. It is also used to help app developers manage and enhance their platform through unique and better updates.
The main objective of CapCut’s data collection is to assist you in protecting your accounts from fraud and illegal logins. CapCut will notify you if there is an attempt or illegal activity.
Is CapCut Safe to Use?
There’s no simple answer. CapCut itself doesn’t seem to be malicious, but the data collection practices and Bytedance connection are points to consider. In general, it is considered a safe video editing app; your data and videos are kept private and are not shared publicly.
CapCut makes every effort to avoid any unauthorized access to your data. It keeps an eye on any suspicious activity. It also monitors its system to find security flaws and resolve them as soon as possible.
However, to protect your data and ensure a safer experience with CapCut, you have to follow some security measures and some safety tips:
Tips and Security Measures for Safe Use
- Download from Official Sources: Only download CapCut from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to avoid malicious versions.
- Review Permissions: Regularly review the app’s permissions and disable any that are not necessary.
- End-to-end Encryption: Always keep turning on the end-to-end encryption. It will protect your data from unauthorized access.
- Update Regularly: Keep the updated version of the CapCut app to benefit from the latest security patches.
- Be Cautious with Personal Data: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information within the app to avoid hacking of the account.
- Use Strong Passwords: If you create an account, use a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication.
Conclusion
CapCut is a fun and exciting video editing platform for TikTokers and content creators. However, its data collection practices raise privacy concerns. Ultimately, the decision of “Is CapCut safe” depends on your comfort level with Bytedance’s data collection practices.
Otherwise, CapCut makes its best effort to keep the collected data safe and secure. By taking a few security measures, you can enjoy the benefits of CapCut while minimizing risks.