Scam Alert: Hackers can scam through fake apps, know how to differentiate between real and fake applications..

Fake apps are apps created by cyber criminals that are designed to harm users and their devices. These apps look like real apps but their purpose is to cause harm. These apps can monitor your activities, install malware, display annoying ads, or steal your personal information.

Fake apps can be spread in many ways. They can be hosted on third-party app stores or fake app stores. Cybercriminals can also use official app stores, even though there are security measures in place. A cybercriminal can register himself as a developer on any app store. One can download a real app and re-upload it by inserting malicious code into it.

Malicious apps are present in every app store.
Google says that it reviews all apps and developers, yet malicious apps can still appear on the Google Play Store. Google regularly removes fake Android apps from its Play Store, including fake antivirus, browsers, and games. While Apple's App Store only allows vetted apps, fake apps can still sometimes be found there. From an attacker's perspective, mobile devices are ideal targets – they go with their owners almost everywhere, contain information about their private lives and infections are very difficult to prevent or detect.

Sometimes fake apps are spread through social engineering campaigns. For example, scammers may send emails or SMS that appear to be from your bank, credit card company or other brands to trick people into downloading apps that could put their data at risk. Sometimes fake apps may also come in the form of fake Android updates or security updates, but clicking on the link can steal your information.

How to identify real and fake apps?

Nowadays hackers are using fake apps to deceive people. In such a situation, it is very important to know how to differentiate between real and fake apps. Here are some easy ways by which you can identify real and fake apps:

1. App name and icon: The names and icons of fake apps are similar to those of real apps, but there are minor changes in them. So look carefully at the name and icon of the app.

2. Developer information: The developer information of real apps is always clear. Check the name of the developer and the information of his other apps on the App Store.

3. Reviews and ratings: Reviews and ratings of real apps are good. Reviews and ratings of fake apps may be low or fake. So definitely read the reviews and ratings.

4. Number of downloads: The number of downloads of real apps is high. Downloads of fake apps are less. So pay attention to the number of downloads.

5. Permission: Real apps ask for only necessary permissions. Fake apps may ask for unnecessary permissions. So read the permissions asked carefully while installing the app.

With these simple methods, you can differentiate between real and fake apps and save yourself from scams. Always be cautious and check the complete information of any app before installing it.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from News 18 hindi. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.