- published 2/23/26 •
- updated •
- 5 MIN
Fake Applications
Apps designed to look like well-known applications or trusted brands to steal your data, deceive you, or blackmail you. More than 85% of fake apps copy well-known applications, and they are often promoted in highly professional ways.
- Theft of passwords and banking information
- Compromise of your personal or work accounts
- Blackmail after obtaining your private photos or personal information
- Direct financial losses
- In 2025, 73% of organizations were exposed to cyber fraud through fake apps and similar threats
- In just one year, 200+ fake apps were downloaded over 40 million times through the Google Play Store
- Today, fraudsters are combining fake apps with advanced spoofing techniques to make them more convincing and deceptive
Example
An app copies the name and logo of a well-known banking app, using a similar design and asking users to enter their login details. It then steals their login credentials (username and password) and uses them to compromise the account.
If targeted by fake app operators:
- Do not pay any money
- Do not send any additional information
- Keep all evidence and messages
- Report the incident directly to the relevant authorities
Your support can make a significant impact in building a secure digital future for everyone:
- Staying informed is key to protecting yourself and your loved ones from online threats.
- Follow our social media channels and website for regular updates on cybersecurity best practices.
- Promote online safety for families, businesses, and the community by spreading this knowledge.
How to protect yourself
If targeted by fake app operators:
- Do not pay any money
- Do not send any additional information
- Keep all evidence and messages
- Report the incident directly to the relevant authorities
Get Involved
Download Social Pack
Policies & Resources
The UAE Information Assurance (IA) Standard is a nationally recognized framework designed to enhance the security and resilience of critical information infrastructure across the United Arab Emirates.
Informing
Government
The UAE is investing heavily in cyber security, using technology and skill to combat threat actors in the cyber domain, foster trust and confidence in the UAE’s digital ecosystem, and safeguard its cyberspace.
Informing
Government
The UAE Cyber Security Council's mission is to protect critical systems from vulnerabilities and secure sensitive data of government entities and CIIs from misuse and unauthorized disclosure.
Informing
Government