How to Recognise Fake Apps

You can do almost anything on your phone these days — pay bills, book travel, watch the grandkids on video, or even manage your investments. But as more of us rely on apps, scammers have moved in too.

Fake apps are one of the fastest-growing digital scams in Australia. Some look exactly like trusted brands. Others hide dangerous software that can steal personal details or quietly charge your credit card.

Here’s how to spot them before they catch you out.

Stick to Official App Stores

Always download apps from Google Play or the Apple App Store. These stores scan new apps for harmful content, while third-party websites often don’t.

Even so, scammers sometimes sneak past the checks. Before you tap “Install”:

• Check the developer’s name — it should match the official company.

• Read a few recent reviews — if people mention scams or poor behaviour, steer clear.

• Look at the download numbers — real apps usually have thousands or millions.

  
  

🧠 Tip: Big companies rarely release more than one official version. If you see “Facebook Pro”, “Netflix HD”, or “MyGov Plus”, it’s almost certainly fake.

Watch for Hidden Costs

Some fake apps don’t steal your information — they steal your money. They advertise as “free”, but quickly ask for a credit card to set up the app or to create your account. There are plenty of legitimate apps that do this, too, so make sure you read the fine print and look out for subscriptions for features that shouldn’t cost anything.

And fake subscriptions are common. You might see wording like “Try for 3 days — cancel anytime” and then find yourself billed for months. Once again, make sure you read all the details.

If you’re not sure:

• Check your App Store or Google Play subscriptions to see if it’s listed.

• Look for unusual bank charges.

• Contact your bank immediately if something seems wrong.

Be Alert to Malware and Data Theft

Some fake apps do real harm behind the scenes. They might:

• Install malicious software (malware) that spies on your messages.

• Steal your contacts, photos, or passwords.

• Redirect you to fake login screens to steal your credentials.

  
  

If your phone suddenly slows down, heats up, or starts showing strange pop-ups, uninstall the last app you downloaded and run a security scan using a trusted antivirus app from a known provider.

🧠 Tip: Real security apps never call you, text you, or ask for remote access.

Use Common Sense Before You Tap

Scammers rely on us being distracted or in a hurry. Often, they will build a sense of urgency in your mind by using terms like "act now before your data is deleted" or similar phrases. Slow down before you download:

1. Read the full app description.

2. Check the logo and spelling.

3. Think twice before giving permission to access your camera, microphone, or contacts.

4. Avoid apps with aggressive pop-ups or flashing ads.

   
   

If something doesn’t feel right — skip it. There’s almost always a safer alternative.

Staying Smart • Secure • Connected and Recognise Fake Apps

Fake apps might look convincing, and learning how to recognise fake apps is important, but your best protection is calm, careful thinking. Take a moment to check the details before you tap “Install” and remember:

• Only use official stores.

• Read reviews.

• Protect your information.

  
  

Finally, it's important that you share your experiences. Reporting suspicious apps to Scamwatch.gov.au or directly through your phone’s store helps to keep others safe, too.

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Do's & Don'ts for Fake Apps

✅ Do:

• Download from official app stores only

• Read reviews and check developer names

• Keep your phone software updated

• Watch for unexpected charges or pop-ups

• Use trusted antivirus tools

🚫 Don’t:

• Install apps from links in emails or social media

• Give payment details to “free” apps

• Ignore warning messages from your phone

• Allow full access if it doesn’t make sense

• Click pop-up ads claiming to “clean” your phone