Learn how to spot red flags and protect yourself from malicious downloads with this quick guide to checking whether an app is truly legitimate before you install it.
There are so many apps available, downloading a new one can feel like walking into a minefield. With malicious apps increasingly common, even on official app stores, knowing how to tell if an app is legitimate isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. Whether you're installing something on your phone, tablet, or computer, here's how you can stay safe and spot the red flags.
Stick to official app stores
Only download apps from trusted sources like:
- Google Play Store
- Apple App Store
- Microsoft Store
- Amazon Appstore
These platforms vet apps before listing them, although malicious apps do occasionally slip through. Third-party sites, especially those offering “cracked” or “modded” apps, are a major risk.
Warning: if an app asks you to disable built-in security settings before installing, stop right there. That’s a huge red flag.
Check the developer
Click on the developer's name in the app store. Look for:
- Other apps they’ve created
- A website or contact info
- A history of quality and updates
Legitimate developers often have an online presence and a track record. If the name seems generic or completely unknown, proceed with caution.
Read the reviews carefully
Don’t just look at the star rating, read the actual reviews:
- Look for detailed and specific feedback.
- Watch for identical reviews or lots of vague 5-star ratings.
- See if people mention bugs, suspicious behaviour, or misleading descriptions.
Fake apps often buy fake reviews, which are usually generic and posted in bulk.
Analyse app permissions
Before you install, take a look at what permissions the app is asking for. Ask yourself:
- Does a flashlight app really need access to your contacts?
- Should a wallpaper app be able to read your messages?
If the permissions seem excessive or unrelated to the app’s purpose, walk away.
Check for typos and design quality
Scam apps often rush to market. Red flags include:
- Poor grammar or misspellings
- Low-quality icons or screenshots
- Clunky or inconsistent design
These signs don’t always mean it’s a scam, but they should trigger a deeper look.
Search for the app online
If you're unsure, do a quick search:
- Type “[App Name] safe or scam?” into a search engine
- Look for independent reviews or tech blog mentions
- Check Reddit or tech forums to see if others have raised concerns
You can also search the app's APK hash (for Android) on VirusTotal.com to see if antivirus engines detect anything suspicious.
Look at the update history
Legitimate apps are frequently updated. Check the “Last updated” date in the store listing:
- If it hasn’t been updated in years, it might be abandoned or worse, compromised.
- If it was recently published but already has thousands of 5-star reviews, that’s suspicious.
Final thoughts
A little vigilance goes a long way. Taking a few extra minutes to research an app before downloading can save you from data theft, privacy breaches, or even financial fraud.
When in doubt, don’t install.