Developers trying to replicate an app would leave some clues, and your ultimate goal is to recognize them. Even if the screenshots look genuine, you need to read the text written on the images.
Due to copyright issues, developers might not use the screenshots of an official app. ScreenshotsĪnalyzing an app’s screenshot is another best way to spot a fake app. You should consider the total number of downloads before installing an app. But what if the listing you are looking at only has 10,000? It’s a clear indication of a fake app. Let’s take an example of WhatsApp – one of the most downloaded apps in the Google Play Store with over a billion installs. On the other hand, fake apps would have fewer installations. The popular and legit apps are likely to have lots of installs. The next best thing to identify a fake app is to check the active installation. So, it’s recommended to check at least 4-5 reviews to analyze the app before installing it.
Also, the app will have mostly negative ratings. Many users might have complained about it in the review section if the app is fake. On the App page, scroll down to the bottom and find the user rating and reviews section. User reviews and ratings tell a lot about the app you are about to install.
In this article, we will share a detailed guide on how to spot fake Android apps on the Play Store. With so many apps available on the Google Play Store, it becomes important to consider a few things before installing an app.
The fake apps could even install malware on your device in some cases. Steps to Identify Fake Apps In Google Play Store Fake apps were mostly used to bombard your Android screen with ads. Developers often create listings that look exactly like popular apps, often using the same icon and name, but they are fake. Although Google is taking appropriate steps to prevent fake apps’ spread, Fake apps still exist on the Play Store.įake Android apps in the Google Play Store have always been a problem for users.
However, the actual problem is that Google Play Store also houses fake apps. Just take a brief look at the Google Play Store you will find apps and games of different categories. In this specific case, however, the users never got the chance to go through the app's pros and cons.The one thing that makes Android different from its competitors is its massive app ecosystem. This will also help users make sure that it is not fake and also give an insight on how good or bad the app is. In order to stay safe, Android users are advised to read reviews carefully before downloading an application. 1 star."Īccording to the Reddit post, some ad providers claimed that this technology is from DSP Digital Turbine which has found a way to avoid Google Play interaction in the process of installing an app. I didn't want this app, it was pushed on to me much like I was roofied and unsure of what just happened. The developers responded to the complaint by saying they are looking into the matter.Īnother review stated, “Installed itself simply from trying to close an ad. Does it everytime an ad pops up, even if you cancel out off the ad. I had an add pop up on a game I clicked out if it, and it started downloading. One of the reviews read, “WARNING this app downloads without permission.