The rising popularity of OpenAI’s ChatGPT has led to an unfortunate side effect – the emergence of fake ChatGPT apps designed to rip users off. These counterfeit apps are causing great concern among users and cybersecurity experts alike. This comprehensive guide will delve into the details surrounding these fake apps, how to identify them, and, most importantly, how to delete them to protect yourself and your hard-earned money.
The Growing Popularity of ChatGPT
OpenAI’s ChatGPT has become a hot topic in the world of artificial intelligence. It offers users an advanced chatbot capable of understanding complex requests and delivering accurate responses. This cutting-edge technology has captured the attention of people worldwide eager to explore its potential uses. However, this growing interest has also attracted the attention of cybercriminals, exploiting the hype for their gain.
The Emergence of Fake ChatGPT Apps
As more people search for ways to try ChatGPT on their smartphones, they unknowingly fall victim to scams. A recent report from cybersecurity firm Sophos revealed that app developers have created fake ChatGPT apps to trick users into paying expensive subscription fees. These apps are identified as “fleeceware,” a term that describes apps that charge exorbitant fees for minimal functionality.
How Fleeceware Apps Operate
Fleeceware apps may not be as dangerous as malicious apps that infect your smartphone, but they still pose a significant problem. These apps employ deceptive tactics to gain users’ trust, such as inflating app reviews on the Google Play Store and App Store. They achieve this by generating fake reviews, making it difficult for users to differentiate between genuine and fake apps.
Sophos has identified five fake ChatGPT apps on the Google Play Store and App Store. These apps are not classified as malicious, but they still present a significant risk to users who end up paying unreasonable fees for subpar services.
The High Cost of Fake ChatGPT Apps
Although most of these fake apps are free to install, their free versions are limited in functionality, leading to constant ads that push users to opt for paid subscriptions. The subscription fees for these apps can range from $300 per year, making it an expensive mistake for users who fall for the scam.
Fleeceware app developers are raking in hundreds of thousands of dollars each month, according to data from SensorTower. This lucrative business model encourages the creation of more fake apps, further exacerbating the problem for unsuspecting users.
Identifying Fake ChatGPT Apps
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To avoid being scammed by fake ChatGPT apps, you need to learn how to identify them. Here are some signs to watch out for:
Similar App Names
Fake ChatGPT apps often use names that are very similar to the official ChatGPT app. This tactic confuses users into believing they are downloading the genuine app.
Inflated App Reviews
As mentioned earlier, fake apps often have inflated app reviews on the Google Play Store and App Store. Be cautious of apps with many positive reviews but minimal genuine user feedback.
Unreasonable Subscription Fees
If an app charges exorbitant subscription fees for its services, it’s likely a fake app. Genuine apps, like OpenAI’s ChatGPT Plus, provide quality services at reasonable prices.
Deleting These Fake ChatGPT Apps
Sophos has successfully identified numerous counterfeit ChatGPT apps on Android and iOS platforms in light of the ongoing issue. If you have any of the following apps installed on your device, it’s best to remove them immediately:
- Genie AI Chatbot: $7/Week or $70/Year
- GAl Assistant: $6/Week
- Al Chat GBT – Open Chatbot App: €6.49/Month
- Chat GBT: $6/Week or $312/Year after the 3-day trial. (iOS Version is named Ask AI Assistant)
- Al Chat – Chatbot Al Assistant: $8/Week, but there’s a way around it.
- Al Chatbot – Open Chat Writer: $6.99/Month or $79.99/Year
These apps are available on either iOS or Android, or both. Sophos has already reported all these apps to both Apple and Google, and most have already been removed. However, if the apps are already on your smartphone, you’ll need to uninstall them manually.
Staying Safe: Stick to Official ChatGPT Apps
If you want to use ChatGPT on your smartphone, stick to the official ChatGPT Plus app by OpenAI. This will ensure that you’re receiving the best possible experience without falling victim to scams or paying unreasonable fees.
Final Thoughts
The emergence of fake ChatGPT apps is a reminder of the importance of staying vigilant when downloading apps. Always double-check the authenticity of an app before installing it, and be cautious of apps with inflated reviews or unreasonable subscription fees.
In a world where artificial intelligence continues advancing, staying informed and protecting yourself from scams is crucial. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can enjoy the benefits of ChatGPT without falling prey to fake apps.
Do you have any thoughts or experiences with fake ChatGPT apps? Share your insights in the comments below or join the discussion on Twitter or Facebook.
