Meta warns one million Facebook users that their account information may have been compromised by third-party apps from Apple or Google Stores. In total, they would be more than 400.
If you’ve ever logged into an app using your Facebook account, you should immediately change your password and set up two-factor authentication. Indeed, Meta security researchers have identified more than 400 malicious apps on the Google Play Store and Apple Store designed to steal users’ Facebook login credentials.
” These apps were listed on Google Play Store and Apple App Store and disguised as photo editors, games, VPN services, business apps and other utilities to trick people into downloading them. said Meta in a blog post. According to Meta’s security team, these apps often ask users to log in with their Facebook account information to use the functions promised, and then steal usernames and passwords if entered.
Also Read – These 95 Android and iOS Apps Are Flooding You With Ads, Uninstall Them Quickly!
Apps can steal your credentials from your Facebook accounts
Meta has shared some tips on how people can spot these types of rogue apps. First, the company warns against apps asking for user credentials before providing any functionality. Then, she recommendsreview reviews in app stores to see if the app qualifies as a scam or misleading. Finally, be aware that if the application promises you something too good to be true, such as new features for a platform, chances are she has ulterior motives.
Most dangerous apps were on Android, as only 45 were listed on iOS. Although Android is more often affected by malware, it is also very common that iOS is full of rogue applications that mostly attack your bank account, so always be sure of what you download. Additionally, the company says the activity did not appear to be targeting a particular geographic region or subset of people.
Both companies have struggled to manage their official app stores, and each is facing moderation issues. For Google, Android’s open ecosystem means users can download apps from third-party app stores outside of Google’s control. iOS’s closed ecosystem presents much less risk of malicious apps appearing outside of the App Store, but since apps must be authorized by Apple and certified as ‘clean’, this makes it even more attractive for attackers to sneak their malicious apps into it.
Anyway, you can find the complete list containing more than 400 dangerous applications on the official Meta website. If you have one, you need to uninstall it as soon as possible and change your password on the company’s social networks.
Source : Meta
