Facebook has a new app called Most Used Words. The app says it can show you the words you type the most on Facebook. But the app also asks for a lot of personal data. This article explains what the app does, what data it can take, why that is risky, and how you can stay safe.
What Is the Most Used Words App?
The app was created by a startup named Vonvon. Vonvon started in March and says it already has more than 200 million users for its viral content. The Most Used Words app has been shared more than 16 million times on Facebook. Because many people click the link, the app has attracted attention from consumer‑protection experts.
How Does the App Work?
When you open the app, it asks for permission to see everything you have ever liked on Facebook. It also asks for permission to see the device you are using, including the IP address and the browser you are using. The app can then collect:
- All of your Facebook profile information
- Your full friends list
- Every photo you are tagged in, even photos on other people’s pages
- Details about the device you use, such as IP address and browser type
All of this information can be stored on Vonvon’s servers anywhere in the world.
What Data Does the App Collect?
According to a review by Comparitech, a tech news and review site, the app’s privacy policy says the data it gathers can be stored on Vonvon servers in any location. The policy also says Vonvon may use any non‑personal data about you even after you stop using the app.
The policy claims that Vonvon will not share your data with third parties. However, the policy does not explain what third parties could do with the data if it were shared. It is also unclear whether any of the data has already been sold.
Vonvon’s CEO, David Hahn, says the company needs access to all this data so that future apps can work without asking you for permission again. He says this will make the user experience smoother.
Why Is This a Privacy Risk?
Collecting so much data creates several risks:
- Identity theft: If a hacker gets the data, they could pretend to be you online.
- Targeted scams: Scammers could use your friends list and photos to create convincing fake messages.
- Location tracking: Your IP address can reveal where you live or work.
- Data misuse: Even if Vonvon does not sell data now, the policy allows them to use it later in ways you may not expect.
Recent news shows that many apps, like TikTok, also track users even when they are not actively using the app (BBC, 11 Feb 2026). This shows a pattern of apps collecting more data than needed.
How to Protect Yourself
Here are simple steps you can take to stay safe:
- Read permissions carefully: Before you click “Allow,” look at what the app is asking for. If it asks for data that seems unrelated to its purpose, say no.
- Use a strong passcode: Keep your phone locked with a passcode or biometric lock. This helps protect your data if someone gets hold of your phone (Facebook safety tip, 19 Apr 2026).
- Limit app access: In Facebook settings, you can see which apps have access to your data. Remove any app you no longer use.
- Check privacy policies: Look for clear statements about data storage, sharing, and retention. Vague language is a red flag.
- Stay informed: Follow consumer‑protection alerts, such as those from Which? (08 Nov 2026) and the National Council on Aging (07 Aug 2026) for tips on avoiding scams.
If you already gave permission to the Most Used Words app, you can revoke it:
- Open Facebook and go to Settings.
- Select “Apps and Websites.”
- Find “Most Used Words” and click “Remove.”
- Choose to delete any data the app stored, if the option is available.
After removal, change your Facebook password as an extra safety step.
FAQ
Is the Most Used Words app safe to use?
The app asks for a lot of personal data that is not needed to show word statistics. This makes it risky. Experts recommend avoiding it or revoking its permissions.
Can Vonvon sell my data to other companies?
The privacy policy says Vonvon will not share data with third parties, but it does not explain what could happen if the policy changes. Because the policy allows broad use of data, there is a possibility of future sharing.
How do I know what data an app has already collected?
Facebook’s “Apps and Websites” settings show a list of data each app can access. You can also request a copy of your Facebook data from the “Download Your Information” tool.
What should I do if I think my data was misused?
Report the app to Facebook, change your passwords, and consider filing a complaint with your local consumer‑protection agency.
Conclusion
The Most Used Words app may look fun, but it asks for a huge amount of personal information. The data can include your friends, photos, device IP, and browsing details. While Vonvon says it will not share the data, the policy is vague and allows broad use.
To keep your information safe, always read permission requests, lock your phone, and regularly review the apps that have access to your Facebook account. If you have already allowed the app, remove its access and change your password. Staying aware and taking simple steps can protect you from privacy risks and potential scams.