Khaberni - Google has launched a widespread warning to billions of users worldwide about malicious VPN applications that are used in spying and personal data theft, following detected hacking operations exploiting these apps disguised as legitimate privacy protection services.
Google confirmed in its latest reports on fraud and cybercrime that cybercriminals distribute harmful applications disguised as reliable VPN services on various platforms, aiming to breach user devices and steal their sensitive information.
Google clarified that these criminal entities mimic well-known brands or use deceptive methods relying on pornographic ads or exploiting geopolitical events to lure users seeking a secure internet connection.
The company indicated that these applications serve as a means to distribute dangerous malware, including information theft programs, tools that give hackers remote control over devices, and fake banking applications, pointing out that this malware can steal browsing history, private messages, financial account data, and information from cryptocurrency wallets.
What is meant by malicious applications?
Google explained that malicious applications are programs that appear normal or useful, but are actually designed to hack devices or spy on their owners, and often disguise themselves as protection tools, games, or free versions of VPN services.
However, they require sensitive permissions such as access to the camera, messages, or bank accounts and then exploit them to steal data or remotely control the device.
This category includes information theft programs, remote hacking tools, spyware, and annoying ads that monitor user activity and sell their data.
How to protect devices
Google urged users to activate the "Google Play Protect" feature to protect their devices from harmful applications, explaining that the system uses advanced machine learning algorithms to detect suspicious apps and prevent their installation, and recommended not to download any apps from sources outside the Google Play Store, such as browsers or messaging applications.
Regarding safe options, reports from the British institution 'Which?' pointed to some reliable VPN providers:
- ExpressVPN: which owns servers in 105 countries, with prices starting from £4.03 per month.
- NordVPN: which offers more than 8,000 servers in 126 locations, and its plans start from £2.57 per month.
- Private Internet Access VPN: which provides service in 91 countries for £1.69 per month.
- Surfshark: which owns more than 3,000 servers in 100 countries, and its cheapest plans cost £2.59 per month.
Warning about public Wi-Fi networks
Google has also expanded its warnings to include the risks of using public Wi-Fi networks, confirming that these networks are often unencrypted and easy to exploit by hackers, which exposes banking accounts and personal information to theft.
The company emphasized in its security report the importance of avoiding connection to public Wi-Fi networks whenever possible, urging users to monitor their bank accounts and credit reports regularly, and to be alert to any security warnings issued by Android devices, as they are able to detect fraud attempts and alert them immediately.
