Does granting "full access" to a database give an app the ability to upload all of that data?

Hello Alan,

Unfortunately granting "full access" to an app on your iPhone allows it to interact with your data without restrictions, meaning it can technically upload your entire database (e.g., photos, contacts, or calendar) to its servers if programmed to do so. Apple enforces user consent through its permission system but does not impose technical barriers that prevent apps from transmitting the data once access is granted. The app's behavior depends on its design, intentions, and adherence to its privacy policy.

For example, when you give WhatsApp access to your contacts, it uploads your entire contact list to its servers to identify which of your contacts are on the platform. Similarly, granting Canon access to your photo library allows it to view and potentially upload all your photos, while Meetup could sync your entire calendar to its system. Apple requires apps to disclose their data practices, but this transparency relies on user trust, and even reputable companies can misuse data or fall victim to hacking.

To mitigate risks, consider granting limited access where possible (e.g., selecting specific photos instead of giving full library access). Regularly review and adjust app permissions in Settings > Privacy to ensure you're not granting unnecessary access. Lastly, read app privacy policies carefully and explore alternatives that offer similar functionality with less invasive permissions. While trusted apps may not misuse data, the potential for breaches or over-collection is a valid concern.

Sources:

• Featured | Apple Developer Documentation

Again, I don't think Apple needs to publish what this means when you grant someone else access to your photos. Apple isn't uploading photos. The site you're linked to would be the one to worry about. Here is a link to Facebooks privacy statements --> https://www.facebook.com/privacy/policy/?entry_point=data_policy_redirect&entry=0 Maybe that will help you.

Feel free to contact Apple directly. I've personally never been worried about this after having given access to trusted social media sites like Facebook, for example for years, without any photo ever showing up there I didn't grant upload to.

You can use the Support Button at the bottom of this page, visit your closest Apple Store or call Apple directly at: 800-MY-APPLE

Granting access to a database, like photos for example, doesn't mean they can upload your photo library. It just means if you want to upload a photo, you've given permission to pull the photo from your library. Only those items you wish to upload, CAN be uploaded. I hope that puts your mind at ease.

You'll have to look for what granting uploads to a specific site means from that site directly. I have granted access to a number of sites like Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, etc., to be able to accept uploads from my photo library. They have never taken anything I didn't give them the right to upload. Nor, do I believe they have any ability to do.