Some fake apps contain malware that can steal personal information or even lock the phone until the user pays a ransom. China is by far the biggest source of fake apps, according to security experts. Dollar Tree and Dillard’s, for example, have no official iPhone apps, which made it easier to lure their customers to the fake apps. Similarly, the supermarket chain Kroger Company has 20 iPhone apps, reflecting the various retail chains in its empire. Fake apps appeared more often on Google’s Android platform or on third-party app stores, he said.

Source: New York Times November 06, 2016 20:46 UTC