Allow access to manage all files

[brianpeart]

This morning I wanted to open a PDF file sent by my electricity company. The file would not open until I gave 'All files access'. If I do that, I go to a page with a switch to allow access to manage all files. I didn't turn it on to allow, because the info text underneath says, quote: "Allow this app to read, modify and delete all files on this device or any connected storage volumes. If granted, app may access files without your explicit knowledge". End quote.

WHAT??

So to read a PDF file on my mobile, I have to allow Adobe to be able to read, modify and delete any and all files on my device - even without my knowledge?? 

This is extraordinary! Who in their right mind would allow that sort of access to their device? And why is it necessary? I find it unbelievable that Adobe would put a demand like that out and I wonder what other readers think of it.

Brian, Oxford, UK

[Bernd Alheit]

Acrobat Reader must access the file to display it.

[brianpeart]

Well yes, of course it must access the file to display it!

The thing is that the app wants to be able to read, modify and delete all files on my device and connected devices - even without my knowledge. Why does it want to be able to do that? Would you really let a third party rumage around your device, without your knowledge, reading, modifying and deleting files?? It's unbelievable.

Or is it just a very badly written info text?

[Bernd Alheit]

May be badly written info.

[cary_2168]

That's an idea. I hadn't thought of that. Or perhaps they want to be covered in case something is accidentally covered? Not the only app that says that. I need adobeceditionscandvam hesitating. . . .

[cary_2168]

Sorry. I mean I need adobe editions and am hesitating. Surely they dont intend anything nefarious.

[cary_2168]

Sorry

 I meant accidentally deleted. I am new to posting

[cary_2168]

I just went to give it permission. It even says it can do things to files not related to the app. What is that?

[Amal. · Accepted solution]

Hi there

Hope you are doing well and sorry for the trouble.

++ Adding to the discussion

The Adobe Acrobat Reader mobile app requires access to all files to: 

• Enable seamless access and management of all files stored on your device.
• Allow opening of documents and files from other apps, as well as allowing apps to create, copy, edit, and save files in your local device storage.
• Enable searching and browsing through all files that are stored on your device.
• View a list of your recently used files under the Recent tab on the app’s home page.
• Display the location of all files to make it easier for you to search for files and browse local files.
  
  

However, the Adobe Acrobat Reader mobile app on Android does not modify or delete any of the files stored in your local device storage (or on connected storage devices) without your explicit consent. When you share permissions to access all files, the app uses this permission only for the experiences listed above.

For more information, please check the help page https://adobe.ly/430J17C

Hope this information will help