7 Strategies to Identify Counterfeit Mobile Apps
You’ve just downloaded a new game, cryptocurrency wallet, or fitness app, but something feels off. Your phone is suddenly flooded with annoying ads, the app isn’t working the way it should, and, worst of all, you notice an unauthorized transaction in your bank account.
Chances are, the app you downloaded might be trying to scam you out of your money or steal your sensitive information. Cybercriminals often target smartphones, especially through apps found on third-party stores, because of the treasure trove of data these devices hold.
According to the ESET Threat Report T3 2022, Android threats surged by 57% in the last quarter of 2022, driven by a whopping 163% increase in adware and an 83% rise in HiddenApps detections.
The good news? You can avoid falling victim to malware and potentially unwanted apps (PUAs) by being vigilant and doing your homework. Here are some tips to help you spot a suspicious app before it causes trouble and what to do if you’ve already downloaded one.
How to Spot a Fake App:
1. **Check the Numbers:**
If an app claims to be wildly popular but has way fewer downloads than you’d expect, be suspicious. Scammers often create look-alike apps to piggyback on the popularity of legitimate ones.
2. **Read the Reviews:**
Look out for poor ratings or reviews that sound too similar or overly enthusiastic. If the app doesn’t have millions of downloads, glowing reviews might be fake, written by bots to mislead you.
3. **Check the Visuals:**
If the app’s logo or color scheme seems slightly off, compare it to the official version on the service provider’s website. Malicious apps often try to imitate real ones but may slip up on small details.
4. **Double-check “Official App” Claims:**
If an app claims to be official, verify this by visiting the service’s official website. Look for direct links to the app on Google Play or the Apple App Store to ensure you’re downloading the real deal.
5. **Check the App’s Name and Description:**
Legitimate apps are usually professional in their presentation, even down to their descriptions. Be wary of apps with poor grammar, awkward phrasing, or inconsistent details—these are signs it might be a fake.
6. **Check the Developer’s Pedigree:**
Apps from unknown developers should raise a red flag. Do a quick online search to check the developer’s history and reputation before you hit download.
7. **Look Out for Excessive App Permissions:**
Be cautious if an app asks for too many permissions. For instance, a simple flashlight app shouldn’t need admin rights or access to your contacts and messages.
7 Tips for Staying Safe:
1. **Stick to Official App Stores:**
Always download apps from Google Play or the Apple App Store to minimize risk. Third-party stores are often less secure and more likely to host malicious apps.
2. **Avoid Clicking Unverified Links:**
Be careful with links sent to you via social media, email, or text. If it looks suspicious, it probably is.
3. **Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):**
Protect your accounts by enabling 2FA, especially for those containing sensitive information.
4. **Keep Software Updated:**
Regularly update your phone’s operating system and apps to ensure you’re protected against the latest threats.
5. **Choose Reputable Apps:**
Opt for apps from developers with a proven track record of keeping their software secure and up-to-date.
6. **Secure Your Device:**
Use a strong passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition to lock your device and keep intruders out.
7. **Use Mobile Security Software:**
Install reliable mobile security software to add an extra layer of protection against malware and other threats.
By following these strategies and safety tips, you can greatly reduce the risk of downloading counterfeit apps and keep your mobile device—and your personal information—safe.
