📲 Fake Apps Are Fooling Businesses. Here’s How to Avoid Them.
When you download a new app for work, how confident are you that it’s actually the real thing?
Most people would probably say “fairly confident”. After all, it came from Google, right?
That assumption is exactly what a growing number of cyber attacks are now exploiting.
We’re seeing a rise in fake versions of well-known apps. Things like WhatsApp, Chrome, and even secure messaging tools such as Signal or Telegram. On the surface, they look completely legitimate. Same logos. Same branding. Same download buttons.
But behind the scenes, they’re anything but.
What’s actually going on
Attackers are creating convincing fake websites that host malicious versions of popular apps. Once installed, these apps can spy on activity, steal data, or in some cases hand control of the device straight over to the attacker.
What makes this especially dangerous is the technique being used to get these sites in front of people.
It’s called SEO poisoning.
In simple terms, attackers use search engine optimisation tactics to push their fake sites right to the top of search results. So even people who are normally careful can end up clicking a malicious link without realising anything is wrong.
From there, a single download can quietly install software that:
Logs keystrokes
Monitors clipboard activity
Captures screen content
Attempts to bypass security tools
Sometimes the real app is installed alongside the malicious one, which means everything appears to work normally. People carry on using their device, unaware anything is wrong, until data starts leaking or accounts are compromised.
Why this matters for businesses
All it takes is one person trying to “do the right thing” and download an app themselves.
That single mistake can expose internal systems, sensitive files, client communications, or login credentials. And once an attacker has a foothold, they often use it to move deeper into the business.
This isn’t about careless staff. These attacks are designed to catch out sensible people.
How to reduce the risk
There’s no silver bullet, but a few simple habits make a big difference.
First, only download software from official app stores or from websites you’ve typed in manually. Avoid clicking download links from search results where possible.
Encourage your team to slow down and check web addresses carefully. Fake sites often rely on tiny misspellings or extra characters that are easy to miss if you’re in a hurry.
Make sure your devices are protected with up-to-date security software and that updates are being applied properly. These tools won’t stop everything, but they can help catch threats if something slips through.
And most importantly, keep awareness high.
A quick reminder in a team meeting or a short internal email about fake apps and malicious downloads can be enough to stop someone making a very expensive mistake.
The bottom line
Fake apps aren’t going away. If anything, they’re getting more convincing.
But businesses that stay alert, build good habits, and support their staff with the right guidance are far less likely to be caught out.
If you’d like help training your team, reviewing your current setup, or making sure your security is ready for threats like this, just get in touch. We’re always happy to talk it through.
