Connect with us

Apps

Sophos Uncovers 167 Fake Android and iOS Trading and Cryptocurrency Apps

Published

on

Sophos has identified a stash of 167 counterfeit Android and iOS apps that attackers are using to steal money from people who believe they have installed a financial trading, banking or cryptocurrency app from a well-known and trusted organization. A report on the findings, “Fake Android and iOS apps disguised as trading and cryptocurrency apps,” shows how the attackers used social engineering techniques, counterfeit websites, including a fake iOS App Store download page, and an iOS app-testing website to distribute the fake apps to unsuspecting users.

Sophos researchers investigated the fake apps and found that many were very similar. Some included an embedded customer support “chat” option. When researchers tried to communicate with the support teams using the chat, the replies they received used near-identical language. The researchers also uncovered a single server loaded with 167 fake trading and cryptocurrency apps. Taken together, this suggests that the scams could all be operated by the same group, according to Sophos.

In one of the schemes investigated, the scammers befriended users via a dating app, setting up a profile and exchanging messages with individual targets before attempting to lure them into installing and adding money and cryptocurrency to a fake app. If targets later tried to withdraw funds or close the account, the attackers simply blocked their access.

In other cases, targets were caught through websites designed to resemble that of a trusted brand, such as a bank. The operators even set up a fake “iOS App Store” download page featuring fake customer reviews in order to convince targets they were installing an app from the genuine App Store. If people clicked on the links to download the fake apps for either Android or iOS, they received something that looked like a mobile web app, but was in fact a short-cut icon that linked to a fake website.

The operators also distributed some of the fake iOS apps via third-party websites that help iOS developers test new applications with a limited number of Apple device users before they submit apps to the official App Store.

“People trust the brands and people they know – or think they know – and the operators behind these fake trading and cryptocurrency scams ruthlessly take advantage of that,” said Jagadeesh Chandraiah, senior threat researcher at Sophos. “The fake applications we uncovered impersonate popular and trusted financial apps from all over the world, while the dating site sting begins with a friendly exchange of messages to build trust before the target is asked to install a fake app. Such tactics make the fraud seem very believable.

“To avoid falling prey to such malicious apps, users should only install apps from trusted sources such as Google Play and Apple’s app store. Developers of popular apps often have a web site, which directs users to the genuine app and, if they have the skills to do so, users should verify if the app they are about to install was created by its actual developer. Last, but not least, if something seems risky or too good to be true – high returns on investment or someone from a dating site asking you to transfer money or cryptocurrency assets into some ‘great’ account – then sadly it probably is.”

Sophos detects these apps as Andr/FakeApp-DC, iPh/FakeApp-DD and iPh/FakeApp-DE. Sophos also advises users to install an antivirus app on their mobile device, such as Intercept X for Mobile, to protect Android and iOS devices from cyberthreats.

Click to comment

You must be logged in to post a comment Login

Leave a Reply

Apps

Google Maps Integrates Waze Incident Reports for Enhanced Navigation

Published

on

Google Maps has started to display Waze incident reports during navigation, allowing users to contribute by confirming road conditions via prompts. This integration follows Google’s July announcement that both apps would share more data, including Waze-sourced road closures, construction updates, speed cameras, and police presence information.

Over the holiday weekend, a Reddit user shared a screenshot of a prompt indicating “Police reported ahead” based on Waze driver reports, as reported by 9to5Google and Android Authority. Users can update these reports to reflect current conditions, similar to other incident notifications in Google Maps.

This is the first confirmed sighting of the feature in action, but more reports are expected. Despite merging the teams behind Maps and Waze, Group Project Manager Can Comertoglu told The Verge that the apps will continue to operate separately. Waze’s 500,000-plus contributors prefer some features of Waze over Google Maps, and vice versa.

This new feature enhances Google Maps’ functionality by leveraging Waze’s real-time incident reporting, providing users with more comprehensive and up-to-date information on their routes.

Continue Reading

Apps

Yango Maps Launches Live Public Bus and Marine Transport Tracking in Dubai

Published

on

Yango Maps, the popular navigation app, has introduced a significant upgrade for Dubai users. The app now offers real-time tracking of public buses and marine transport, providing a more efficient and convenient commuting experience.

Thanks to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)’s open data policy, Yango Maps can now display accurate and up-to-date locations of public transportation vehicles. By switching to the “Transport” tab, users can easily view the real-time movement of buses and ferries on the map.

The app also allows users to search for specific bus numbers and view their routes, stops, and estimated arrival times. This feature is particularly useful during peak hours or in extreme weather conditions, as it helps users plan their journeys efficiently and avoid unnecessary waiting.

Yango Maps continues to evolve with innovative features that aim to simplify urban navigation. By incorporating real-time public transport data, the app empowers users to make informed decisions and optimize their daily commutes.

Continue Reading

Apps

PetWatch App Launches in the UAE

Published

on

Today marks the official launch of PetWatch, a revolutionary app designed to cater to the soaring number of pet owners in the UAE. As pet ownership has surged by 25% in the last five years, PetWatch emerges as a solution to the growing demand for reliable pet care. By connecting pet owners with certified sitters, PetWatch fosters a community-driven approach to ensure the well-being of furry friends.

A recent PetWatch survey underscored the concerns of pet owners, with over 68% expressing doubts about the reliability of pet sitters. To address these concerns, PetWatch has implemented a stringent vetting process for all sitters on its platform. Each sitter undergoes rigorous training and certification to guarantee they meet the highest standards of pet care, providing pet owners with peace of mind.

“PetWatch was created out of a genuine need among pet owners. We understand the worries that arise when leaving a beloved pet behind,” said Monja Madan, Founder of PetWatch. “Our platform connects pet owners with trusted sitters and builds a community where pets are cherished as family. With love, trust, and safety at its core, we strongly believe PetWatch app will reform pet care in the UAE.”

PetWatch stands out with its commitment to quality and community. Here’s why:

  1. Certified Caregivers: Every PetWatch sitter completes our rigorous training program, ensuring they have the skills to provide exceptional pet care.
  2. Thorough Vetting: Our team personally verifies each sitter, including ID checks and in-person meetings, building trust between owners and sitters.
  3. Continuous Learning: Our sitters learn from professional vets and dog trainers, gaining hands-on experience and preparing them for any pet situation.
  4. Dedicated Support: PetWatch offers daily customer support, providing owners and sitters with expert advice and resources.

Other features include:

  • Personalized Profiles: Create detailed profiles for your pet and sitter to find the perfect match.
  • Vaccination Management: Track vaccination records and receive reminders for upcoming shots.
  • In-App Communication: Chat, share photos, and stay connected with your sitter.
  • GPS Tracking: Monitor your pet’s location for added peace of mind.
  • Comprehensive Checklist: Ensure all pet care needs are met with customizable checklists.
  • Easy Payments: Handle transactions seamlessly within the app.

PetWatch addresses common concerns like trust and time constraints. By connecting owners with certified sitters, offering personalized features, and fostering a supportive community, PetWatch ensures your furry friend is always in the best hands. “By combining certified expertise with robust community engagement, PetWatch empowers pet owners and sitters alike,” added Madan. “PetWatch represents more than just a platform; it’s a movement toward a better way to care for our pets.”

To further enhance the pet care experience, PetWatch is expanding its platform to include health-tracking tools and educational resources. This will empower pet owners with valuable information about their pet’s health and behaviour.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Advertisement

Latest Reviews

Follow us on Facebook