Heightened Threat to Digital Privacy and Finance
MOUNTAIN VIEW – Tech giant Google has issued a strong cautionary alert to users regarding fraudulent Virtual Private Network (VPN) apps that pose an extreme risk to their personal and financial security. The warning highlights the growing sophistication of cyber threats in the digital landscape.
Google’s latest advisory reveals that cyber criminals are developing apps designed to look like legitimate VPN services or security tools. However, these are, in fact, vehicles for deploying Remote Access Trojans (RATs) or Banking Trojans, intended to gain unauthorized access to users’ devices.
The Modus Operandi of Data Theft
The advisory explains that these malicious apps either contain faulty permissions or, despite fulfilling basic VPN responsibilities, are simultaneously accessing a user’s extra sensitive information. This stolen data can include browsing history, private messages, cryptocurrency wallet details, and other crucial financial credentials.
Crucially, Google pointed out that this threat is not limited to unofficial or third-party app stores; these deceptive VPNs have the potential to infiltrate official app stores as well, due to the cunning nature of cyber criminals.
In an effort to restore user trust and provide guidance, Google has introduced a special “VPN Verified” badge. The company urges users to download VPN apps exclusively from official and trusted stores and to always look for this verification badge.
