What are Scam Applications and How Not to Fall for Them?

However, knowledge of scam applications, some safety tips, and caution can help you dodge them. So, please keep reading to learn everything about scam applications and how not to fall for them.

What are Scam Applications?

Cybercriminals and developers design scam applications that resemble legitimate apps. However, when the user downloads these applications, it contains malware that may steal your data.

The masterminds will reverse engineer or copy real apps and then infuse them with malicious code. For example, the BAWAG scam app, it was the copy of a prominent financial institution that asked for "accessibility services'' after downloading the app.

When the users grant permission, the app reads the screen and mimics user interaction. Therefore, the consent makes it tough for the user to uninstall the app. Moreover, the permission grant makes your data, identity, and other activities vulnerable.

Apart from this, there have been many scenarios of scam apps that look identical to usual apps but have various forms of malicious elements. Therefore, your priority must be safeguarding your device by protecting its information and avoiding these apps.

Tips to Not Fall for Scam Applications

Here are some tips which can save you from scam applications:

Use VPN

If you want to stay safe while downloading an app and check whether it's legitimate, you can use the fastest VPN for your console that can bring better experience. In addition, they mask your IP address and help you from data theft.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure network connection. To accomplish this, it encrypts your internet traffic and masks your online identity, making it tough for third parties to see or use your data. In addition, it limits access to location and other activities, which is beneficial if you have a compromised app. So, downloading and using suspected apps on VPN is highly recommended.

Don't Trust Third-Party Sources

Many third-party sources have lucrative offers, bonuses, free claims, etc. While they may feel tempting, it's best to avoid these sources. Therefore, you must remember to download and use legit apps.

Some of the steps which can help you stay mindful while downloading apps are:

• Try your best to download apps from official Google or Apple app stores.
• Don't download apps from suspected online stores, third parties, or other sources.
• Always read the reviews of the app
• Ensure quick background research of the app before downloading
• Always go through the permissions it's asking for.

Although the apps from official app stores also have scam apps, the app has to go before rigorous approval, which makes them safe. Also, the authentic stores remove and warn about the suspected apps from time to time.

Never Click on Links in Email and Messages for App Download

A survey showed that the older the victims, the more money they lose from scams. The reasons are not updating yourself with new scam strategies.

In the same way, scam apps downloaded through SMS and email links are trending a lot. A message from a bank, credit card company, or other reputed companies will have links to download their app. These apps can be scams. So, never follow the links on SMS and emails. Instead, check the apps on the genuine app stores.

Look for Important and Common Mistakes

Some loopholes exist no matter how scammers disguise their apps as real ones. You can quickly check to protect yourself and your device from malicious apps.

Some of the most serious and common mistakes you should look for are:

• Grammar mistakes, generally, scam apps have typos and other errors.
• They mimic the app's logo, but it still has some flaws.
• The reference screenshots are low-quality or distorted.
• Always go through the release date. The most authentic apps have been on the market for a while. So, if you see an app whose release date is recent, it can be a scam too.
• Always check the download count. It should be safe if it has a million or lakh of downloads.
• Check its update frequency. It must be high as it signifies a well-protected app.
• Research the developer as scammers try to mimic the name of the original developer by mentioning the initials of the name.

Closing Lines

There are new scams now and then, like Kelkong, a scam or legit online store and its controversy. But there are many more ways to disguise online elements as something normal. The scammers are coming up with upgraded ways, and it's important to stay aware. So, always pay attention to what you download and use safe apps.

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