Cyber criminals are having no problem adapting to the shift in our use of technology. They are now copying legitimate applications for Android and iOS devices and embedding them with malware to gain access to our personal information.
Recently the app “Craftsart Cartoon Photo Tools” was deleted from the Google Play store after malware called FaceStealer was discovered, but not before it was downloaded by more than 100,000 users. The app, which was marketed as a filter that turned photos into paintings and cartoons, allowed criminals to access Facebook accounts, including any linked payment information, as well as users’ conversations and searches.
If you have downloaded this app, delete it right away, if you haven’t already, and change your Facebook password. Before downloading apps, it’s important to validate their legitimacy. Our Fraud Team recommends the following steps to protect your device:
- Only use apps available in your device’s official store.
- Never download apps from a browser.
- Be wary of apps from unknown developers or those with limited/bad reviews.
- Don’t grant administrator, or excessive privileges to apps unless you truly trust them.
If you’re a Merrimack customer and are concerned your personal or financial information was compromised, please call us directly at 603.225.2793.