So experts ESET companySlovak cybersecurity software developer and 24 Channels We have prepared recommendations that will help you recognize a fake application even before you download it or detect such an application if it already exists on your smartphone.

What is the danger of fake apps?

If you download and install a malicious program on your phone, you can expose the owner of the gadget to a variety of threats, from slowing down the device to spying. The most common risks include:

• theft of confidential and personal data that can be sold to other fraudsters;
• obtaining financial information to steal a person’s money;
• device slowdown due to changes in settings, faster battery discharge;
• display of numerous advertisements inside and outside the application;
• listening to conversations, viewing messages and other spying activities;
• Stealing business accounts or data to gain access to confidential corporate data.

How often do fake programs spread?

This type of fraud has become increasingly common in recent years. Some fake apps target a broad audience, while others target a specific group of users. The top fake malware detected by ESET experts include fake WhatsApp and Telegram, distributed through dozens of fake websites. Once installed, the app allowed eavesdropping on people’s chat messages to steal their confidential information and cryptocurrency funds.

Another example is the BadBazaar cyber espionage software distributed by Chinese-linked hackers under the names Signal and Telegram. By the way, both types of applications have passed official verification and entered Google Play and Samsung Galaxy Store.

How to protect your smartphone from malware / ESET photo

How can you prevent fake apps from infecting your device?

• You should always install updated versions of the operating system and programs, as threats often try to exploit bugs in older versions.
• Before downloading, you should always check the reputation of the developer on the Internet and reviews about the program.
• Always use official app stores as they have strict verification processes to prevent malware from entering the platform.
• To make it easier to keep track of what’s happening on your device, uninstall apps you don’t use.
• Do not click on links or attachments, especially if they appear in unsolicited messages on social networks or in emails and offer to download software from third-party sites.
• Avoid clicking links in ads online as this may be part of a fraud scheme aimed at redirecting users to a malicious impersonator.
• You should be careful when granting permissions to an app that are not related to its functionality, as there may be malware trying to access your data.
• Use biometrics to log into your accounts instead of simple passwords.
• Always use security solutions such as: ESET HOME Security PremiumProviding advanced protection with effective threat detection, malicious site blocking, online payment protection and password management.

How to reduce the possibility of installing fake programs on your device / ESET photo?

What activity on the device should raise suspicion?

It is also a good idea to be aware of any unusual activity on your device in case it is infected with malware. For example, you should be careful if the battery drains faster than normal. Also, if the device runs slower, it may be due to malware.

You should also pay attention to persistent pop-up ads because this may indicate that the user has installed an adware. It is necessary to monitor the appearance of unusual icons on the screen.

Today, smartphones and tablets are users’ “gateways” to the digital world. But this world needs to be protected from intruders. With these simple steps, your finances and personal data will be better protected.