Be warned: Scammers are making fake versions of popular apps to try and steal your personal data, so it’s important to do your homework before downloading any app. How can you spot a fake app — the kind designed to get malware onto your device? Take these precautions:
Do some research. A developer with few reviews or downloads could just be starting out. On the other hand, they could be a scammer intent on tricking you into downloading the app. Perform an internet search on the app and the developer. Most legitimate developers will have a website that showcases the app and any additional apps that company has made.
Read the available app reviews. If they seem short and nondescript, chances are good that the app is a scam. Also look for reviews from users that were previously duped by the app.
Notice the details. Do the images of the app look professional? Good design can indicate a good app, since scammers are usually in a rush and simply throw images together. Look for mismatched fonts, misspellings, and non-symmetrical placement of logos and images.
Check for thorough explanations and details. Does the developer say exactly what the app does? Legitimate app developers will provide a clear explanation of instructions and features of the app.
Watch for clones of popular, established apps. Examine the name of the developer to see if it matches up with the app. Note the number of reviews — hugely popular apps will have hundreds, if not thousands, of user reviews.