Taking extreme precautions when downloading apps is key to protecting ourselves from possible malware attacks. In many cases, cybercriminals publish fake applications, with the same aesthetics as the original ones, that keep Trojans inside to steal our data and obtain revenue from them. We tell you.
When we want to install a new application, or update the one we already have, it is important that we take extreme security measures and let’s avoid any download when we observe some sign that can alert our attention. Recently, a type of malware has been detected on Android that disguises itself as some of the most popular apps, as Google, Instagram or WhatsApp, with the aim of stealing users’ login credentials.
According to reports from Android Headlines, the technique they use to deceive users is based on the use of logos and titles that official applications have for seem completely legal. When users reach them, they trust that it is the official app and, when they download it and enter credentials, we are providing access to critical permissions.
Theft of personal data
Once the application is installed in our terminal, The appearance is exactly the same as if we had downloaded the original. From that moment on, when we log in with our username and passwords, all information remains in the hands of the group of cybercriminals. So that, ultimately, they can obtain revenue from our personal data.
The same source mentioned previously also reports that through these types of actions, they can steal our contact list to carry out a phishing attack or spam campaigns. Or even obtain permanent access to our device remotely. So the chances that they could commit some type of crime are even greater. Even without us realizing it at any time.
Control permissions and avoid unnecessary downloads
As we can protect us from these types of attacks? As we have described, these types of attacks are based on simulating the aesthetics and functioning of apps that we use in our daily lives and, if we do not look closely, their consequences can be fatal. To avoid facing this unpleasant scenario, we must always take special care when we go to download any application. We must always do it from official sources and take extreme precautions when identifying any detail that may make us suspicious.
In addition to this, it is also recommended that we be cautious in those situations in which applications request a high number of permits to be able to use them. We should not accept that any application we download requests access to the contact list or our photographs, if it is not going to be used this type of information. In these types of situations, the best thing we can do is cancel the download and contact the developer, if possible, so that they inform us of any risk to which we are exposed.
