The scam apps that imitate ChatGPT continue to thrive due to loopholes in the app store guidelines and are profiting from the current interest around the latest version of the AI-powered language model with sometimes horrendous subscription fees.

ChatGPT imitations in app stores

Sophos

The report “ FleeceGPT Mobile Apps Target AI-Curious to Rake in Cash ” reveals the machinations of these so-called “fleeceware” programs, in which users are driven to a paid subscription with almost zero functionality and constant advertisements in free test versions. In addition, fraudsters increase the attractiveness of their apps through fake reviews and constantly asking users to rate the app before it is even used or the free trial ends.

“Fraudsters have and will always use the latest trends or technologies to line their pockets. ChatGPT is no exception. Since interest in AI and chatbots is currently extremely high, users are currently downloading almost anything that is similar to ChatGPT very unthinkingly - a behavior that of course plays into the hands of the developers of this type of fraud apps, Sophos calls them " fleeceware ". . They assume that users don't pay attention to the cost or simply forget that they have a subscription.

The Fleeceware apps are specifically designed so that they can hardly be used or can no longer be used at all after the free trial version has expired. This is particularly insidious because even if you delete the app, subscription payments often continue. Users who have fallen for Fleeceware apps should definitely follow the guidelines of the Apple and Google app stores to officially log out.”

Sean Gallagher, Principal Threat Researcher at Sophos

The basic version of the original is free, but the fakes require you to pay immediately

In the current report, Sophos X-Ops took a closer look at five Fleeceware apps, all of which are supposedly based on the ChatGPT algorithm. In some cases, such as the “Chat GBT” app, the developers exploit the similarity of the name to the original to improve the ranking of their app in the Google Play or App Store.

However, while OpenAI provides users with the basic functionality of ChatGPT for free, these apps cost between $10 per month and $70.00 per year - without any added value. The iOS version of "Chat GBT," called "Ask AI Assistant," costs $6 a week after its three-day free trial - or $312 a year - and earned the creators over $10,000 in March alone. dollars into the coffers; despite numerous negative reviews. The detailed analysis of these and all other fraudulent apps can be found FleeceGPT Mobile Apps Target AI-Curious to Rake in Cash

“Fleeceware apps are specifically designed to stay at the edge of what Google and Apple allow in terms of service, and they don't violate security or privacy regulations, so they are very rarely rejected by these stores during review. While Google and Apple have introduced new policies to curb fleeceware since we reported on such apps in 2019, developers continue to find ways to get around these policies, such as by severely restricting the use and functionality of apps unless users pay .

Despite the deletion of some current fraud apps, it can be assumed that new ones will continue to appear. The best protection is therefore education. Users must be aware that this type of scam apps exist and always read the fine print before clicking subscribe. Additionally, users should report apps to Apple and Google if they believe developers are using unethical means to make a profit.”

Sean Gallagher, Sophos

All apps mentioned in the report were reported, Google deleted some of the apps on its platform at the time of the blog post, Apple confirmed receipt of the information. Users who have already downloaded these apps should follow the Apple App Store or Google Play Store “opt-out” guidelines. Simply deleting the Fleeceware app does not always automatically terminate the subscription.

Here you can find more information about the fraudulent use of fleece goods on Google Play and the Apple App Store .

Source:

Sophos


This might also be of interest:
My AI: ChatGPT now also on Snapchat
Uninformed cell phone users: App tracking often goes unnoticed!
Artificial Intelligence: Dangers for the media system and democracy?


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