Warning over ‘rogue’ Bitcoin apps that STEAL your money – full list here

OVER 170 scam cryptocurrency mining apps have been spotted by security researchers.

All of them are Android apps and 25 were spotted on the Google Play Store.

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A detailed report from Lookout listed all the malicious crypto-mining apps.

Those spotted on the Google Play Store have now been removed.

However, Android users who may have already downloaded them should check the list below.

The apps don’t actually mine for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin but they will take you’re money.

If you’ve downloaded one of the above apps then you’re advised to delete it straight away.

The Lookout Threat Lab researchers explain on their blog: “The apps’ entire raison d’être is to steal money from users through legitimate payment processes, but never deliver the promised service.

“Based on our analysis, they scammed more than 93,000 people and stole at least $350,000 between users paying for apps and buying additional fake upgrades and services.”

The security researchers separated the apps into two categories called BitScam and CloudScam.

All the apps charge for offering fake cloud cryptocurrency mining services.

However, the apps put in the BitScam category accept Bitcoin and Ethereum as payment options.

Most of the apps would charge upfront costs and try and charge for extras.

Users were told they couldn’t withdraw earnings until they reached a certain money milestone but even if they did reach this, the apps would then show an error message.

The Lookout blog explains: “Similar to BitScam, CloudScam apps offer options for users to earn more coins at an increased rate, such as “upgrading” to a subscription plan with lower minimum withdrawal balance and higher mining rates, referring friends and earning “20%” of their friend’s earnings, and daily rewards.

“None of these options will earn users coins. Instead, they result in generating more revenue for the scammers behind these apps.”

In other news, nine apps have had to be removed from the Google Play Store after they were caught stealing Facebook passwords.

Facebook is facing backlash in the US over plans to create a version of Instagram for children under 13.

And, influencers who don’t clearly state if they’ve edited photos which are advertisements could be fined or imprisoned in Norway due to a new law.

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