Google warns against fake VPN apps: How to stay safe
What's the story
Google has issued a warning about the growing threat of fake Virtual Private Network (VPN) apps. These malicious programs pose as legitimate VPN services but are actually designed to steal sensitive personal information. Instead of protecting your online activity, they could be quietly collecting your most sensitive data, including banking details and passwords.
Rising trend
The appeal and danger of VPNs
VPNs have gained immense popularity in recent years, with users relying on them for privacy, streaming content from different regions, or just to feel more secure online. However, Google warns that some malicious developers are exploiting this trust. They create apps that mimic regular VPN tools with clean logos and flashy descriptions promising "military-grade protection." But once installed, these apps do the opposite of what a VPN should do - they start stealing personal data instead.
Data theft
Fake VPNs can steal sensitive information
Google's security team has warned that these fake VPNs are capable of stealing sensitive information like banking details, cryptocurrency wallet information, passwords, and private messages. Some of them even allow remote access to attackers, giving them direct entry into your device without you ever realizing something is wrong. This makes the threat even more serious as it could lead to major data breaches.
Deceptive marketing
They are promoted through misleading ads
The deceptive nature of these apps is further amplified by their promotion through misleading ads or fear-based marketing tactics. They play on the fears of unsuspecting users with messages like "Protect your phone from hackers NOW!" This makes it even more difficult for users to distinguish between real and fake VPN apps, increasing their chances of falling victim to this threat.
Safety tips
How to prevent your personal data from fake VPNs
To avoid falling victim to these fake VPNs, Google recommends sticking to trusted VPN brands and avoiding unknown apps. Android users are also advised to keep Google Play Protect enabled. This feature scans apps in the background and blocks those that request suspicious permissions, the kind often used by these malicious programs.