Is Apple App Store safe to use?
Safe
Yes. Apple reviews every app, though scam and copycat apps occasionally get through.
Checked October 2026
Quick facts
- Owned by
- Apple
- Based in
- Cupertino, USA
- Encryption
- Encrypted in transit.
- Data it collects
- Purchases and app usage tied to your Apple Account.
- Minimum age
- Screen Time and Ask to Buy for children
What keeps you safe
- Every app is reviewed before it's listed.
- Privacy labels show what each app collects.
- Ask to Buy lets parents approve purchases.
Risks to know about
- Fake and scam apps sometimes pass review.
- What's available depends on governments: China's store lacks WhatsApp, Signal and VPN apps.
Scams to watch for on Apple App Store
- Subscription traps with huge weekly fees after a free trial.
- Copycat apps with names close to popular ones.
Is Apple App Store legit?
The App Store is Apple's official store.
Is it safe for kids?
Use Screen Time and Ask to Buy.
How to use Apple App Store safely
Check the developer and reviews.
Review subscriptions in Settings regularly.
Report scam apps to Apple.
Where Apple App Store is restricted
Does a VPN make Apple App Store safer?
Partly. A VPN hides your IP address and protects you on public Wi-Fi. It can't stop Apple App Store collecting data or scammers messaging you.
Picked for privacy and getting messages through.
Proton VPN
Swiss-based with open-source apps and a free tier, plus a Stealth protocol for restrictive networks.
For strict networks: the Stealth protocol.
Try Proton VPNNordVPN
Largest network of the six, with the NordWhisper protocol for networks that inspect traffic.
For strict networks: NordWhisper or obfuscated servers.
Try NordVPNPrivate Internet Access
Open-source apps, unlimited devices and servers in every US state, at a low price.
For strict networks: the Shadowsocks proxy option.
Try Private Internet AccessNot sure about these three? See 3 more VPNs ExpressVPN, Surfshark and CyberGhost
ExpressVPN
Obfuscation is switched on automatically on every server, so there is no special mode to find.
For strict networks: automatic obfuscation (with the protocol on Automatic).
Try ExpressVPNSurfshark
Unlimited devices on one plan, with NoBorders mode that switches on in restrictive regions.
For strict networks: NoBorders mode.
Try SurfsharkCyberGhost
Servers labelled for specific streaming services and a 45-day refund window on longer plans.
For strict networks: a nearby server (CyberGhost has no stealth mode).
Try CyberGhostWe earn a commission if you buy a VPN through our links. It never changes what we report as blocked. How we pick and how we make money
Questions people ask
Is Apple App Store safe to use?
Yes. Apple reviews every app, though scam and copycat apps occasionally get through.
Is Apple App Store legit?
The App Store is Apple's official store.
Is Apple App Store encrypted?
Encrypted in transit.
What data does Apple App Store collect?
Purchases and app usage tied to your Apple Account.
Is Apple App Store safe for kids?
Use Screen Time and Ask to Buy.
Does a VPN make Apple App Store safer?
Partly. A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts traffic on public Wi-Fi, so your network and ISP can't see what you do on Apple App Store. It does not stop Apple App Store itself from collecting data, and it does not protect you from scams inside the app.