As the use of mobile applications continues to grow, so does the risk of downloading malicious apps, which has also increased. Cybercriminals achieve this by creating fake apps that are exactly the original ones but send malware or steal information. Such malicious apps may look quite real and can put your security and privacy at risk. Therefore, knowing how to detect fake apps before downloading is essential.
This guide provides useful methods to help you verify app authenticity and avoid falling victim to fake apps that can harm your device or data. By following these steps, you can protect yourself from malicious downloads and enjoy a safer app experience.
Methods to Spot Fake Apps
Step 1: Download from Official App Stores.
Use a web browser on a computer or mobile device to access the Google Play store. Always download apps from the official Google Play Store, as it uses advanced security measures.
Afterward, click the search bar at the top of the screen and type the name of the app you wish to download.
Step 2: Check the Developer’s Information.
Verify the app developer’s name by reviewing the details under “App support”. There you should find information about the developer, including the developer's email and website.
Step 3: Read Reviews and Ratings Carefully.
Go through user reviews and check the app’s rating. Be cautious of apps with few reviews, overly positive comments, or repetitive feedback, as these could be fake.
Step 4: Review the Number of Downloads.
Popular apps usually have millions of downloads. If an app claims to be well-known but has very few downloads, it might be suspicious.
Step 5: Examine the App Description.
To view the app description click the arrow under “About this app”.
Next, check for spelling mistakes or poorly written content, as these can be signs of a fake app.
Step 6: Analyze App Permissions.
Pay attention to the permissions the app requests. Scroll down to find “App Info”, then click on “App Permissions”. Select “See More” to review the full list of permissions.
Eventually, check if the app requests access to sensitive data that is not necessary for its functionality. If it does, don't download it.
Step 7: Look for Recent Updates.
Legitimate apps are regularly updated for security and performance. Under the “App info”, check the “Updated on”. If an app has not been updated for a long time, it may not be reliable.
Step 8: Verify the App’s Website and Contact Info.
Authentic apps usually include a link to an official website in the Play Store description. Visit the website to confirm that it is genuine.
Step 9: Enable Google Play Protect.
Turn on Google Play Protect by going to “Settings”, then click “Security” followed by Google Play Protect. It scans apps for harmful behavior regularly.
Step 10: Trust Your Instincts.
If something feels off whether it’s the app’s icon, description, or behavior, avoid downloading it. But if the app meets all the criteria and appears legitimate, you can proceed with downloading it with greater confidence.
