Downloading an app from Google Play Store or App Store? Beware! Check these danger signs

Even if you’re downloading an app from Google Play Store or App Store, always look for these warning signs before you start.

By: HIMANI JHA
| Updated on: Aug 17 2022, 15:26 IST
Your bank account under threat from this DANGEROUS malware on Google Play Store!
Know how to save your iPhone from malware attack.
1/5 A new malware called Octo is circulating around the globe, infecting millions of phones. Shockingly, it has been revealed that it can maliciously access your device and all your banking information. (REUTERS)
Know how to save your iPhone from malware attack.
2/5 The malware disguises itself on Google Play Store as legitimate apps and accesses your device, while making it seem that it is switched off. In reality, it is a fake black screen that hackers can alter to fool you into thinking it is switched off. (Pixabay)
Know how to save your iPhone from malware attack.
3/5 The malware is a variant of the Trojan ExobotCompact. Fraud detection company ThreatFabric first noticed people buying Octo on the dark web. (Pixabay)
Know how to save your iPhone from malware attack.
4/5 Octo has advanced remote accessing capabilities which make it even more dangerous for your smartphone and it is capable of bypassing Play Protect. Therefore, you should be wary of what you are installing on your device and ensure ‘Scan apps with Play Protect and Improve harmful app detection’ are turned on. (REUTERS)
Know how to save your iPhone from malware attack.
5/5 The apps known to contain Octo are Pocket Screencaster, Fast Cleaner 2021, Play Store, Postbank Security, Pocket Screencaster, BAWAG PSK Security, Play Store app install. (Pixabay)
Know how to save your iPhone from malware attack.
icon View all Images
Know how to save your iPhone from malware attack.

The increasing popularity of smartphones and our reliance on them has made them very vulnerable to hacking and cyber crimes. Hackers target users by injecting dangerous malwares into an iPhone or Android phone through a link or an app from Google Play Store or App Store without letting them know. These viruses attack weak areas in the operating system and steal crucial data like banking details and data. Malware can infect any iPhone or Android phone and tablets through these rogue apps, infected file attachments, and shady websites. So, it is very important to be alert while browsing on the internet or downloading apps. Even a little bit of carelessness can make you a victim of cybercrime.

Hence, it's very crucial to look for a few red flags before downloading any app in order to prevent you from being the victim of these malicious activities. Know the major warning signs before you download any app from Google Play Store or App Store.

You may be interested in

MobilesTablets Laptops
23% OFF
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G
  • Green
  • 12 GB RAM
  • 256 GB Storage
5% OFF
Apple iPhone 15 Plus 256GB
  • Black
  • 6 GB RAM
  • 256 GB Storage
9% OFF
Apple iPhone 15 256GB
  • Black
  • 6 GB RAM
  • 256 GB Storage
24% OFF
Google Pixel 128GB
  • Black
  • 4 GB RAM
  • 128 GB Storage
Also read
Looking for a smartphone? To check mobile finder click here.

Major warning signs to protect your phone from malware

 

Save your mobile phone from viruses and other security risks. Here are a few red flags that you must look for.

1. Never install "optimizing" and "cleaning" apps like Speed Clean, Super Clean, and Rocket Cleaner. Numerous malicious Android apps were found disguised as "cleaners" and "optimizers."

2. Check feedback or reviews before downloading any app even from trusted app sources. Google has banned thousands of malicious apps from the Play Store in the past few months.

3. Check the number of downloads the app has before you too go for it. Claims of huge numbers of downloads for a new app is a warning sign as fraudsters use these tricks to trap users so if you see a new app is claiming millions of downloads, beware.

4. Developers mention all the details of apps in Google Play Store description including the app permissions it needs to access to work your phone. If you find any odd permissions it needs, then it's a bad sign.

5. Research about the app developer, see if they've made any other apps. If yes, then look for their reviews as well.

Catch all the Latest Tech News, Mobile News, Laptop News, Gaming news, Wearables News , How To News, also keep up with us on Whatsapp channel,Twitter, Facebook, Google News, and Instagram. For our latest videos, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

First Published Date: 17 Aug, 15:26 IST
NEXT ARTICLE BEGINS