Security tips for mobile apps

Some mobile apps are designed to resemble legitimate apps but instead carry out malicious activities like stealing data. Use these simple tips before you download from your device’s app store.

• Check the app’s name and description for spelling errors.
• Consider the app’s release date, total rating, number of ratings, as well as the number of downloads to see if they appear consistent.
• Review both positive and negative reviews.  Exclusively positive reviews could be a sign of fake reviews. Legitimate users who already downloaded the app and realized it was malicious may have posted a negative review to warn others.
• Review the requested permissions to see if they appear excessive. A flashlight app should not require access to your contacts.