Fake VPN and Spam Blocker Apps Tied to VexTrio Used in Ad Fraud, Subscription Scams
Fake VPN and Spam Blocker Apps Tied to VexTrio Used in Ad Fraud, Subscription Scams — [https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixY7wDxNEEk
What’s new: A report by Infoblox reveals that the malicious ad tech group VexTrio has developed fake VPN and spam blocker apps available on Apple and Google app stores. These apps, which include names like Spam Shield, trick users into costly subscriptions and harvest personal information. VexTrio has been active since at least 2015, operating a complex network of fraudulent activities including ad fraud and subscription scams.
Who’s affected
Users who download these malicious apps may face unexpected charges, difficulty in canceling subscriptions, and potential exposure of personal information. Millions of downloads have been reported across various fake applications.
What to do
- Review and monitor app permissions and subscriptions regularly.
- Educate users on identifying legitimate apps and avoiding suspicious downloads.
- Implement security measures to block known malicious apps and ad networks.
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