When we have unlimited options in the world, it is easy to get duped. This is also true for Android applications. With so much available on Google Play Store and third-party websites, faking something real is not that hard. This is why we are here with a guide on how to pick out fake apps on Android devices.
One of the reasons for the unprecedented growth of Android OS is its open-source nature. Though this brings perks for the users as well a set of its own problems. One such considerable issue is the spread of fake apps disguised as genuine or working units.
How to Pick Out Fake Apps on Android Devices
It is not really easy to spot a fake app. They look exactly like the real ones but they are developed with malicious intent. This could include stealing your personal data or even causing hardware issues on your device. When combined with Google Play Store Tricks and Tips, this article will enhance your knowledge in many ways.
Fake apps are properly designed and could be found everywhere from third-party websites to Google Play Store. Escaping them is not perfectly possible, but you can still take some precautionary measures to keep yourself safe.
It Has a Meh Icon
Well, if a developer is spending hours of his life creating an application for Android users most probable they will spend some time on its UI and icons too. This is why look up at all your catalog of applications that have some attractive icons.
But one flag to spot a fake app is to look up at its icon. You will find a totally generic or unattractive icon. It will appear to be not adding any aesthetic value to the overall application’s appearance. Chances are, this is not a genuine app.
Everyone is Cursing
The best way to spot a poor application is to look for ratings and reviews. If you find that the ratings are terribly low and in reviews, every installer is leaving terrible replies, most probably it is a red flag.
But don’t take it too seriously without going deep into the people’s opinions. It is normal that some people will always criticize an application. It’s fine as none can create a perfect app for all the users. But if the majority of them are not happy with it, you don’t need to waste your time.
Developer is Unknown
Another great way to pick out a fake app is to research more about the developer of the application. So if you have not heard the name of this application or have not seen it shared by the people and there are no reviews to verify its originality this is the way.
Copy the developer’s name and put it in the Google Search bar. There you will find all the relevant information. If you do not see any results for your query or what you find is something negative, it is time to ignore this application.
Asking for Unnecessary Permissions
Before the privacy options really got strict every application on the Play Store tried to access as much about you as they could. Now, with restrictions in place, most of them have mended their ways. But still some applications try to spy on us for more than what they need.
The fake apps mostly want all the information about you. For example, if you downloaded a game, it should not ask you for camera or contact access. Because there is no point in giving them camera access in this case.
Conclusion
Some other tricks on how to pick out fake apps on Android devices include checking out for official links, the overall make of the application, and common sense. If you have any new ideas share them here in the comments below.