Prey is a security application designed to protect and track your devices, emphasizing the importance of specific permissions for optimal functionality. Users are advised to enable a certain permission to prevent accidental uninstallation, ensuring that the app remains active and secure. If users need to uninstall, they can do so from the login screen, which also allows them to deactivate this permission. Moreover, it is recommended to turn off the "Delete permissions if not used" option to maintain uninterrupted device protection.
The application utilizes Accessibility services to facilitate its "Lock" feature, which prevents unauthorized access by displaying an "Access Denied" screen overlay. However, this feature is only available for devices running Android versions prior to version 9 due to restrictions in later versions. For users of Android 12 and above, the app requires permission to manage all files to enable advanced functionalities like File Retrieval, which goes beyond handling just images and videos.
Prey also employs the Device Administrator permission, necessary for its Remote Wipe and Lock functionalities. Additionally, the app requests access to location data in the background to support geotracking and geofencing capabilities, even when the application is not actively in use. While most Android devices will automatically request the required permissions, certain models, particularly Huawei and Xiaomi, may necessitate manual permission adjustments, with guidance available on the Prey support site.
Prey offers both free and starter plans with basic tracking and monitoring features such as geolocation tracking, screen locks, and activity logs. For more advanced functionalities tailored to organizations, users are encouraged to explore the paid plans which include features like control zones, file retrieval, automations, and more. The company, founded in 2009, maintains a commitment to user privacy and mobile security through the use of open source code, ensuring that user data is handled responsibly. For assistance, users can reach out via email or consult the terms and conditions on the Prey website.