From uploading pictures of grocery receipts to watching videos to earn gift cards, there are several ways to cash in. Work at home mom Nicole McDonald says she makes about $1,000 each year using money making apps.
"I like using apps that pay me cash and rewards because it's a super easy way to get some extra income," McDonald said.
Receipt Hog is the app McDonald uses to upload sales slips. The app will also pay users to take short surveys.
The Shopkick app rewards customers with gift cards after visiting recommended stores, scanning items, and buying products.
With Clashot, just upload photos and if they are liked by another user, you can earn money.
Cash Pirate is a popular one app that pays you to play games
"We are definitely seeing more and more apps that at least say they'll make you money if you use them," said tech expert Jennifer Jolly.
One cyber security expert warns that if you use them, apps could be cashing in on your privacy. Expert Gary Miliefsky reviewed some of the top money making apps and found these things buried in the fine print. Some apps admit they:
- Find your precise GPS location
- Prevent a device from sleeping
- Send SMS messages
- Modify or delete contents of your USB storage
- Download files without notification
- Take pictures, video, and record audio
"Yes, they need to monetize you and ensure that you're located where you say that you are but they're collecting way too much information," Miliefsky said.
Experts say if you are going to use a money making app, make sure to:
- Review its privacy policy and what information the app accesses
- See where the app company is located - the U.S. is best
- Read the reviews
- Don't download any app that pops up as a link in a text message
"For the most part these apps are fairly safe if you download them from the iTunes store or Google Playstore... you have a few more built in security measures," said tech expert Jennifer Jolly.
App user McDonald says she has never had a problem with any of her money making apps. She says she is fine trading some of her privacy for a little extra cash.
"I don't think you could make a living off the apps but I think it supplements your income very well," McDonald said.
When you use the apps, you receive your money via a Paypal transfer, e-gift cards, or points to redeem.