Emergency Aid 2021: The fake apps are found on Google Play

The emergency aid was essential to support and survive the beneficiary families. However, there are apps present in the Google Store that officially claim to be part of the program. The purpose of these fraudulent platforms is to steal banking details provided by citizens

According to Kaspersky, a tech security company, most of these apps claim to provide information about aid payment schedule and other terms. Even if some of them do not request personal data, they invade the mobile page with ads and notifications, which makes the user keep the app open so that the developers can earn money by accessing.

It is worth noting that some of these platforms require a PIS number. This number serves as a social identification available on the FGTS, on the business card and in the citizen card. It is recommended that you provide this information only on official benefit channels and on the Caixa Econômica Federal website.

Fabio Asolini, Karpersky’s chief security analyst, warns that:

“There is a high chance that these apps will eventually become malicious. Just an update from the developer is enough to start the app requesting personal data from users. That way, cybercriminals will be able to obtain personal and financial information – including those that diverted millions of public aid payments. The past, he says.

By following the instructions, it is recommended to install only official emergency assistance apps from a cell phone. To do so, check out the rating and reviews on the Google Play Store or the App Store. However, do not open unknown links, which are received via SMS, WhatsApp or email.