Google Bans 150 SMS Scam Apps From The Play Store: All You Need To Know
The discovery for these apps was made by cybersecurity firm Avast. As per the report, the apps were downloaded over 10.5 million times across the globe.
Google has removed 151 scam SMS apps from its Google Play Store. The apps were part of the UltimaSMS campaign and hidden in the garb of a keyboard, camera filter and other utility-based apps. The apps would sign users for expensive premium SMS services.
Reuters
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The discovery for these apps was made by cybersecurity firm Avast. As per the report, the apps were downloaded over 10.5 million times across the globe. Moreover, the apps were replicas in structure and functionality albeit stealing users' money and other confidential data in the background.
The UltimaSMS scam campaign is not just fixed on one particular geographical location, but several nations across the world including the US, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE and Poland.
When the malicious app gets installed, the app checks location, IMEI number and phone number to denote the language of choice and country area code. Once the app is opened, the app asks them to enter their phone number or even their email ID to use the app (the garb it portrays).
And as soon as the user gives the phone details, the scam app subscribes the number to a premium SMS service with monthly costs going upwards of $40 a month, based on the nation the user belongs to. The app doesn't unlock the features it¡¯s supposed to, and at times even crashes altogether.
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Reuters
Even if the user chooses to uninstall the app, the damage is done. The user is subscribed to the premium SMS services and they get billed accordingly.
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Avast recommends deactivating premium SMS options with the operator to make UltimaSMSScam ineffective. It also asks users to read reviews carefully before downloading any app willy nilly to beware of its true purpose.
Moreover, only if the app is truly trusted, should you share your personal information with it. Also, make sure to read the fine print before filling up applications. And as always, it's best to download from official app stores such as Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Are you using any of these banned SMS apps highlighted by Google? Let us know in the comments below and keep reading Indiatimes.com for the latest science and technology news.
