Have you ever been tempted to download the beta version of your favourite app so you can try out all the amazing new features ahead of everyone else?
STOP!!
The FBI has some information that may cause you to reconsider.
Cybercriminals have devised a novel method of luring us into their lair. They hide dangerous malware in phoney beta versions of popular apps, converting unsuspecting people’s devices into personal piggy banks.
Don’t get us wrong: we love innovation just as much as the next group of tech fanatics. While beta versions are appealing, they haven’t been subjected to the rigorous security assessments that apps in legitimate app stores must pass.
Criminals send bogus emails posing as popular software developers, offering early access to new beta versions.
But, of course, they’re forgeries. Once installed, they have the ability to access data from your finance apps and potentially take control of your phone.
Could your business be jeopardised if your employees download them onto company devices?
There’s a moral to this story. And it’s a straightforward one: Patience is a virtue.
Downloading beta versions of apps should be avoided. Wait till they’re stable and available in app stores. Good things come to those who wait, and safe apps are no exception.
If you have previously downloaded beta versions, look for red flags such as increased battery consumption, poor performance, continuous pop-up advertising, and apps requesting extra permissions.
In this digital world, we need to be as smart and savvy as the technologies we employ. So, before you click the download button, consider whether this app is worth the risk.
Train your employees to think similarly. If you do provide them work phones, think about using a Mobile Device Management system to limit what they can do with them.
We can assist you in better protecting all of your gadgets. Get in touch.