FTC: Your Holiday Shopping Apps Might Be Fake

You might be using mobile apps to do your shopping this season, but some of those apps might be run by fraudsters trying to steal your credit card information.

The Federal Trade Commission is warning consumers to watch out for fake apps masquerading as big-name retailers but operated by criminals trying to steal credit card and bank details. Other apps might install ransomware, locking users' phone until they pay a certain sum of money, according to an FTC blog post.

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FTC recommended:

• Search for the app on retailers' websites. Usually, they'll send users directly to the app store to download it.
• If you suspect an app might be fake, search the web for a brand name and "fake app" to check if it's been reported.
• Check app reviews before downloading. If the app doesn't have reviews, it could be fake. 
• Make sure there are no misspelled words in the app's description. "Many fake apps were created in a hurry," the FTC blog post warns, though it notes some fake apps look almost like the real thing.
• Keep screenshots of transactions, including the online receipt and emails from the seller.
• Check credit card statements, looking for unauthorized charges.