Police issue advisory pertaining to Android malware apps

You may not think too much about downloading an app onto your phone. Apps are widely available and can make navigating a website from your phone much easier. However, many people may not realize that they can also be used by cybercriminals to steal your information. In this recent scam, cybercriminals are targeting Android devices with malicious apps. The apps include a fake Google Chrome app and a fake sports streaming app called 4K Sports.

If you download these apps, malware will be installed on your phone. Cybercriminals design this malware to allow them to access your phone without you knowing about it. This malware can record what you type into your phone or allow cybercriminals to control your phone remotely. It can even access your phone contacts and send them text messages. The texts contain links to web pages with malicious apps available for download, allowing the malware to continue to spread.

Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to a malicious app scam:

·         Only download apps from official and trusted sources like the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. Avoid downloading apps from third-party websites or links sent via text or email.

·         Read reviews and do research before downloading any app, especially lesser-known ones.

·         Don't click on suspicious links in unexpected text messages or emails, even if they appear to come from someone you know.

Stop, look, and think. Don’t be fooled by the scammers.