This fake app takes advantage of people who are facing difficulties in downloading software updates for their Samsung handset. It is worth mentioning that more than 10 million people have already installed this app. The app also assures its users to make it easy for them to download software updates. This app claims to offer a centralized location where the owners of Samsung devices can get their software and OS updates. But then, the app is not affiliated with Samsung and is a scam that loads the update[.]com domain in a WebView (Android browser) component. By going through the app’s information on Google Play Store, one can see that many users have reported that it only redirects to a website that is full of advertisements. This bogus site suggests both free and paid Samsung software updates to the people. Usually, the site slows the speed of free downloads by limiting to 56 KBps and then, they ultimately stop. So, if you try installing any free software, the download will never finish even with a reliable network. The website then crashes all the free downloads and the Updates for Samsung app forces the users to pay for $34.99 premium package if the user wants to download any files. Despite making payments, the users were not able to download software packages. The app does not follow the Play Store rules and uses a third party payment system rather than using a method provided by Google for safe and protected payment channel.
We should also mention that the app also provides the users with a $19.99 SIM card unlocking service. There is a possibility that this is just another way to fool people and making money. The app does not install any malware in the user’s device. But then, it is a very suspicious app developed to dupe people all over the world. Many people have been fooled by this app thinking that it will make it easier for them to update their Samsung devices. These types of fake Android apps not only deceive people for money, but they can also risk their privacy by collecting data from the user’s device.
