Simply because an app is on the Google Play Store does not suggest that it’s an authentic application. Google continually removes fraudulent applications from the Android market, including false antivirus programs, web browsers or games.
Apart from Google Play and other app stores, malware-infected apps could be downloaded onto your device through numerous other means. Hackers will use any method needed to convince you of installing fake apps. Criminals hack into real IDs and then use that ID to send out emails and SMS messages that look coming from your banking. Credit card companies or other brands lure users to download apps which compromise their personal information. Sometimes, fake apps appear as security updates and clicking on the links can result in your data being stolen.
If you’re an Android user and receive unwelcome messages, an odd notice or alert or unusual request from what could be your bank or known brands, beware that criminals could be trying to rip your account.
How Can You Protect Yourself From Hackers? webroot.com/safe
Unwanted emails, texts or unexpected notifications which appear to come from a retailer, bank or another known institution might not be what they appear to be. Be wary of any message sent to you. Always take the time to read the message prior to opening it. Instead of clicking on the link by the message visit the website that is in the question and sign in to your account. If the message is to be particularly alarming, call the business directly to confirm the details before making any decision online.
A further important aspect is to you can download Android apps from trusted sources, like The Google Play Store. Prior to downloading an app, you must do some research, and then download it. It is important to be aware of how many times it was downloaded. A popular app with a lot of downloads is an indicator of a high-quality app. In the beginning, you should read app reviews and then look up the app’s developer’s profile, and then do an online search. There may be additional information about other users who have been victims of these types of crimes. Cyber attackers might try to deceive you with fake reviews, which are usually brief and general Be sure to examine any other apps created by the creator. The more apps created by developers, the greater the likelihood that the creator is authentic.
Notifications about software updates or security patches aren’t always easy to understand. In many cases, users receive instructions to install a security update. The best option in this situation is to go online and find out more information regarding the update. If you find several discussions on the internet regarding the security update in question is available, you can verify that it is authentic.
There are certain visual elements as well that stand out when you are trying to spot fake Android applications. Poor logos, spelling errors, poor design as well as unbalanced or poorly designed interfaces are indicators that the app could be fake.
In the end, if you wish to protect your device completely there are several ways to keep your device secure.
Conclusion –
Always be sure to conduct a thorough research before you click. While there is the urge to click and install in one go but it is best to do your research to be aware of the indicators that an app could be fake. A simple step to protect yourself should do is check the Android settings and verify that you are not allowing apps downloaded from third-party websites.
Webroot Mobile Security App Advisor for the Google Play Store, which is part of Webroot Mobile Security provides comprehensive proactive protection against dangers of today’s smartphone Internet landscape. The App Advisor lets you look at the behavior of an app prior to downloading it to your device. App Advisor scans your apps on Google Play Store. Google Play Store looking for aspects that may violate privacy, display annoying or intrusive behavior such as pop-up advertisements or excessive battery use, and excessive data usage. If you’re using Webroot.com/safe then it will determine if an app is malware or has malicious intent.
