Many apps serving a wide range of uses are available on the Google Play Store. Yet, along with the benefits of having so many options comes the possibility that certain apps will be flagged as dangerous because they contain harmful code, breaching users’ privacy, stealing their data, and so on. While Google’s Play Protect system does a good job of keeping an eye on apps, some harmful ones may still get through the cracks.
Cybernews has discovered an app on the Google Play Store that might be used by hackers to collect user information. OyeTalk is the app being spoken about. OyeTalk is a popular voice-chat software that has been downloaded over 5 million times from the Google Play Store. Its features include the ability to host podcasts, participate in group chats, and more. A report claims that the software did not properly secure its database, which exposed the personal information of its users.
According to cyber news, researchers found OyeTalk to be a data leaker due to its unsecured and open access to Google’s Firebase mobile application development platform. An unencrypted, open Firebase instance exposed over 500MB of data, including user interactions, usernames, and IMEI numbers. According to the investigation, the app’s creators knew about the leak but did nothing to prevent the public from accessing the database.
You risk having your data stolen, your phone become vulnerable to cyber attacks, and your phone rendered worthless if you let malicious apps onto your device. You should exercise caution with any sensitive information you keep on your Android phone if you have this app installed.
A user should be aware of certain huge red flags before clicking the download button on any app from the Google Play Store.
These are some warning signs you should keep an eye out for in order to spot malicious apps early:
Examine the app permissions – Since the most recent Android releases, any app you install will require different permissions from your device. Apps that request access to sensitive information, including your location, contacts, and other personal data, should raise red flags. Also, check if apps are asking for permissions that actually make sense for it to work. For example, if a Music app requests contact or call log permissions, delete it immediately since there is no need for a Music app to ask for such permissions.
Read user reviews – Before you commit to downloading an app, make sure to read user reviews. Users write reviews of mobile applications based on their personal experiences using the apps.
App descriptions – A detailed description of the programme and its developer may be found at the Google Play store. A list of the developer’s other app releases is accessible via the “More by” link next to their name. In light of this, be sure to only download apps from reputable sources.
Look for downloads count – It’s possible that a potentially dangerous app has only a few users who have downloaded it. Make sure you only install apps that have received a certain amount of downloads before downloading them.
To reiterate, you should not believe anything you read on the internet or hear over the phone. It’s crucial to always double-check your app downloads to ensure your safety.
