14 DAY TRIAL // A few days ago, Android users were surprised to see that several popular iOS applications appeared on Google Play. Experts wonder if the bogus apps were an attempt to make a profit or part of a malware-spreading scheme.
The fake Apple applications have been removed by Google from the Play site, but it’s clear that fraudsters or cybercriminals are turning to new gimmicks.
As Sophos’ Graham Cluley highlights, the apps were sold at prices between $4.98 (3.9 EUR) and $9.97 (7.7 EUR). The crooks might have been hoping to make a generous profit, considering that many Android users might be tempted to purchase Apple apps.
On the other hand, the pieces of software could have been cleverly set up to infect smartphones with malicious elements. Or, it could have been a combination of both.
In any case, it’s clear the even though Google is struggling to keep its official app marketplace clean, they still have a long way to go until they achieve this goal. That’s why users are advised to avoid downloading apps from unverified developers.