Fake apps are emerging as a growing cyber threat, prompting the Cyber Security Council (CSC) to warn users about the dangers of downloading suspicious applications to their devices. The alert came as part of the weekly awareness campaign under the Cyber Pulse initiative.

The council said fake apps can act as gateways for data theft, fraud, and cyber extortion. It emphasised that avoiding suspicious downloads can significantly reduce risks, limit fraudsters’ access to personal data, and protect sensitive information.

According to the CSC, fake applications have become one of the most dangerous cyber fraud tools targeting both individuals and institutions. Their risks extend beyond simple data theft. Fraudsters may exploit stolen information, images, or financial data to blackmail victims.

Furthermore, the council noted that fake apps are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Fraudsters often replicate the interfaces of legitimate applications and use names and logos that closely resemble authentic ones. Estimates suggest that more than 85 percent of fake apps imitate well-known applications, making detection difficult even for experienced users.

In addition, fraudsters are increasingly combining fake apps with deepfake technologies. These technologies enable criminals to create fabricated videos or audio recordings that give false credibility to their schemes.

The awareness campaign also highlighted the scale of the threat. Around 73 percent of institutions in 2025 were exposed to some form of cyber fraud involving fake applications or other malicious digital tools. This reflects the growing impact of cybercrime on the digital economy.

Moreover, more than 200 fake applications were identified in a single year. Before they were detected and removed, these apps had collectively been downloaded more than 40 million times through the Google Play Store.

The CSC explained that users can identify fake applications through several verification measures. One of the first steps is checking the developer’s name. Genuine apps are typically issued by recognised companies or verified developers, while fake ones often display unfamiliar names or slight variations of legitimate brands.

Logos may appear identical at first glance. However, closer inspection often reveals subtle differences in colour, resolution, or design.

Reviews and ratings also serve as important indicators. Fake applications often contain exaggerated ratings, repetitive comments, or multiple complaints about malfunctions and unjustified permission requests.

Requested permissions can also signal potential risks. Simple applications should not request access to photos, cameras, location, or contacts without a clear purpose. In addition, legitimate apps usually receive regular updates to fix vulnerabilities and improve performance. Fake apps, in contrast, often lack a consistent update history.

The council also warned that some fake applications go beyond stealing data. In some cases, fraudsters use stolen information to financially extort victims or threaten to publish private content.

In this context, the Cyber Pulse campaign urged victims not to pay extortion demands under any circumstances. Paying does not guarantee safety and may encourage further demands. Victims are also advised not to send additional information, images, or documents that could provide criminals with more leverage.

The Cyber Pulse campaign, launched by the Cyber Security Council and now in its second consecutive year across social media platforms, is part of the United Arab Emirates’ broader efforts to build a secure cyberspace. The initiative aims to protect users from growing digital threats and keep pace with rapid technological developments.

These efforts support a national vision to strengthen trust in the digital ecosystem, promote cybersecurity awareness among individuals and families, and encourage safe online practices. Ultimately, the campaign highlights that public awareness and vigilance remain essential to reducing risks associated with fake apps.

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