deceptive practices

AppWizard
March 26, 2025
A Pentagon advisory warns against using the messaging application Signal for any communications, even unclassified ones, due to a vulnerability exploited by Russian hacking groups. This follows an incident where a journalist was inadvertently included in a Signal chat about military operations in Yemen. The advisory, dated March 18, indicates that Signal is not authorized for processing or storing non-public unclassified information, despite previous guidance allowing its use for unclassified accountability exercises. A 2023 Department of Defense memo also prohibited using mobile applications for controlled unclassified information. The accidental inclusion of a journalist in sensitive discussions is termed “spillage,” which can endanger military careers. Signal's spokesman stated that the memo does not reflect concerns about the app's inherent security but emphasizes vigilance against phishing attacks.
AppWizard
March 5, 2025
Google Messages has introduced several new features for Android and Pixel users, focusing on user safety and connectivity. Key updates include an AI-driven scam detection tool that analyzes SMS, MMS, and RCS messages in real time to identify potential scams, alerting users to suspicious messages. This feature is initially available in English in the US, UK, and Canada, and it prioritizes user privacy by processing data on the device. Users can also share their live location with trusted contacts through a new feature integrated with the Find My Device app, which allows for real-time location sharing while maintaining control over who can access this information. Additionally, exclusive features for the Pixel 9 model include enhanced connectivity options for linking GoPro cameras and other Pixel phones, as well as upgrades to the Pixel Studio app for creating stylized images and stickers.
AppWizard
February 25, 2025
Cybersecurity researchers discovered a predatory loan application called SpyLoan on the Google Play Store, which targeted Indian consumers and achieved around 100,000 downloads before being removed. The app presented itself as a financial management tool but required extensive permissions, accessing sensitive user information. User reviews indicated experiences of blackmail and low loan amounts. SpyLoan falsely claimed affiliation with a registered non-banking financial company and redirected users to download a separate loan application from an external site, circumventing some Google safeguards. Google confirmed the app's removal and stated that Android devices are protected against known malware through Google Play Protect.
Winsage
February 9, 2025
Microsoft has released an 'uninstall document' for its Edge browser that focuses on promoting Edge's features rather than providing clear instructions for uninstallation. Users can only find a 'repair' option in the control panel, with no official way to fully remove Edge. This strategy appears aimed at encouraging users to keep Edge, despite its competition with Google Chrome. The approach is reminiscent of subscription cancellation processes that use persuasive tactics to retain users. The document's intent seems disingenuous, as it does not facilitate uninstallation. This strategy may lead to increased user aversion to Edge.
AppWizard
December 2, 2024
Researchers have identified 15 predatory loan applications on the Google Play Store that collectively garnered eight million downloads before being removed. These apps, which falsely advertised low-interest loans, engaged in extortion and harassment of users, particularly targeting individuals in South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa, including countries like Mexico, Colombia, and Senegal. The apps requested a one-time passcode to access user location information for their predatory practices. Users are advised to check app ratings, download numbers, and reviews to verify app legitimacy.
AppWizard
November 27, 2024
McAfee has identified 15 "predatory loan apps" on the Android platform that pose significant risks, having been downloaded over 8 million times globally. These apps exploit users through deceptive practices, often leading to financial distress. Users are advised to uninstall these applications, research apps before downloading, monitor app permissions, stay informed about cybersecurity news, and utilize security software for protection.
AppWizard
September 24, 2024
Android users are advised to uninstall two applications, Wuta Camera and Max Browser, which have been found to contain a new variant of Necro malware. These apps have over 11 million downloads combined and can install harmful payloads, including adware, tools for subscription fraud, and mechanisms for routing malicious traffic. Wuta Camera has over 10 million downloads, while Max Browser has 1 million. Google has removed Max Browser from its platform, but Wuta Camera is still available after a recent update that eliminated the malware. Users are encouraged to delete these apps and consider using antivirus software to check for infections.
AppWizard
September 20, 2024
Meta has announced a global ban on several Russian state-controlled media outlets, including the TV network RT and the media group Rossiya Segodnya, across its platforms Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and WhatsApp. The ban is a response to concerns about deceptive practices employed by these media networks to influence public opinion. This decision follows sanctions imposed on RT by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who accused the network of facilitating disinformation. Rossiya Segodnya and RT are Kremlin-backed organizations that present themselves as independent but share the same editor-in-chief. Both have faced bans in various countries for disseminating disinformation and promoting Russian propaganda. Meta has a history of implementing similar bans, including the suspension of Donald Trump's account in 2021 and the banning of Alex Jones for violating community standards.
AppWizard
July 15, 2024
The Federal Trade Commission is taking action against NGL Labs, a California-based company, for unfairly marketing to minors, overstating its efforts to protect users from cyberbullying, sending fake messages to trick users into signing up for paid subscriptions, violating laws around collecting personal data of children under 13, and failing to comply with COPPA privacy protections.
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