Latest news with #GoogleChrome
Glasgow Times
9 hours ago
- Glasgow Times
Mobile phone users warned to ‘stop before you tap' on apps
Anti-fraud, cybersecurity and financial organisations are highlighting a 'surge' in Android malware on mobile phones. They want people to be on the lookout for unexpected updates or 'strange' app requests and are urging users to 'stop before you tap'. Malicious apps may mimic legitimate tools to steal banking details. The Cyber Defence Alliance (CDA), UK Finance, Cifas, and ThreatFabric have joined forces to highlight the problem. How do you know if someone is scamming your phone? In some cases, malicious apps may look like file managers, PDF readers, phone cleaners, or even browsers like Google Chrome, the organisations said. Once installed, they can appear harmless but later activate harmful features through hidden updates. Criminals may use techniques which overlay fake login screens on top of real banking apps to steal login credentials. Deceptive 'busy' or 'waiting' screens may be displayed to mask fraudulent activity. People may also be prevented from exiting the app or restarting their device. They may find that excessive permissions such as 'accessibility' access are requested. People are being urged by the organisations to be vigilant particularly when being prompted to re-authenticate during a banking session. This could also mean an unexpected prompt to install or update Chrome; or being asked to grant unusual permissions, particularly accessibility access. International crime groups are at heart of mobile attacks, the organisations said, adding that users in general should be vigilant. How to avoid scams Han Sahin, CEO of ThreatFabric, said: 'Just as we've learned to be cautious with links, we now need the same vigilance when installing apps. This is the logical next step in staying safe, and public awareness is crucial.' Garry Lilburn, operations director at CDA, said: 'This crime highlights the growing prevalence and sophistication of mobile malware. 'As we work to better understand and disrupt this evolving threat, it's crucial that financial consumers stay vigilant, follow recommended security tips, and take a moment to verify what's in front of them – before becoming the next victim of this highly targeted fraud.' Recommended Reading: Have to stay safe from mobile fraud 1. Only download apps from trusted sources. 2. Check app reviews and developer information before installing. 3. Keep your device's operating system and apps up to date. 4. Report suspect apps or activity to your bank immediately. 5. Be wary of apps requesting unnecessary permissions. The above suggestions have been made by the organisations to help mobile users stay safe.
Daily Record
10 hours ago
- Daily Record
Mobile phone users issued 'banking app' alert amid security concerns
Although software may seem harmless at first glance, downloading it could install malware on a device Mobile phone users are being urged to 'stop before they tap' amid mounting fears over malicious apps. Whilst some software might appear legitimate initially, downloading it could install malware onto a device, putting personal and financial information at risk. Anti-fraud, cybersecurity, and finance organisations have observed a 'surge' in Android malware and are calling on people to remain alert for unexpected updates or 'strange' app requests. These harmful apps frequently impersonate legitimate tools to steal banking details. The Cyber Defence Alliance (CDA), UK Finance, Cifas, and ThreatFabric have joined forces to spotlight the issue. The firms caution that dangerous apps may masquerade as file managers, PDF readers, phone cleaners, or even browsers like Google Chrome in some cases. Garry Lilburn, operations director at CDA, said: "This crime highlights the growing prevalence and sophistication of mobile malware. As we work to better understand and disrupt this evolving threat, it's crucial that financial consumers stay vigilant, follow recommended security tips, and take a moment to verify what's in front of them – before becoming the next victim of this highly targeted fraud." Despite some malicious apps appearing benign initially, they may subsequently activate damaging features through concealed updates. It's cautioned that 'busy' or 'waiting' screens may be employed to deceive phone users whilst hiding fraudulent activity. Further warning signs include being unable to close the app or restart the device. Additionally, the app might ask for excessive permissions, like 'accessibility' access. In response to this threat, mobile users are being urged to exercise extra caution, particularly when encountering unresponsive 'banking apps' or generic-looking applications such as file managers or phone cleaners. Being prompted to re-authenticate during an active session, install suspicious updates, or follow unusual instructions may indicate that something's wrong. Even if an app is legitimate, fraudsters can potentially employ techniques that overlay fake login screens to capture login credentials. The organisations cautioned that numerous international crime groups are behind mobile attacks. Mike Haley, CEO of Cifas, commented: "The surge in Android malware is not just a tech issue – it's a growing threat to consumers and to banking services we all rely on. Criminals are evolving their tactics faster than ever, using deception and stealth to bypass traditional security measures. "The best defence is awareness. If something feels off – an unexpected update, a strange app request – stop before you tap and always seek a second opinion. Education and vigilance are our frontline tools in the fight against fraud." Meanwhile, Han Sahin, CEO of ThreatFabric, said: "Just as we've learned to be cautious with links, we now need the same vigilance when installing apps. This is the logical next step in staying safe, and public awareness is crucial." Dianne Doodnath, principal of economic crime at UK Finance, also added: "We encourage customers to stay alert to all threats of fraud, including the potential for criminals to trick people into downloading malware onto phones which could put your personal and finance information at risk of theft. "It's important that you keep your phone security system up-to-date and always download from trusted sources to ensure you're protected from the risk of fraud and data harvesting." How can phone users stay safe? The firms have compiled five essential tips. These include: Keep your device's operating system and apps up to date. Report suspect apps or activity to your bank immediately. Be wary of apps requesting unnecessary permissions. Only download apps from trusted sources. Check app reviews and developer information before installing.
Daily Mirror
11 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
All mobile phone users issued key warning over 'strange' apps
Although software may seem harmless at first glance, downloading it could install malware on a device Phone owners are being urged to 'stop before they tap' amid growing concerns over malicious apps. While this software might seem normal at first glance, downloading it could put malware on a device, risking personal and financial information. Anti-fraud, cybersecurity and finance bodies have noted a 'surge' in Android malware and are urging people to be vigilant for unexpected updates or 'strange' app requests. These malicious apps often mimic legitimate tools in order to steal banking details. The Cyber Defence Alliance (CDA), UK Finance, Cifas, and ThreatFabric have teamed up to highlight the problem. The organisations warn that in some instances, harmful apps may disguise themselves as file managers, PDF readers, phone cleaners, or even browsers like Google Chrome. Garry Lilburn, operations director at CDA, said: "This crime highlights the growing prevalence and sophistication of mobile malware. As we work to better understand and disrupt this evolving threat, it's crucial that financial consumers stay vigilant, follow recommended security tips, and take a moment to verify what's in front of them – before becoming the next victim of this highly targeted fraud." Although some malicious apps appear harmless at first, they may later activate damaging features through hidden updates. It's warned that 'busy' or 'waiting' screens may be used to mislead phone users while concealing fraudulent activity. Other warning signs include being unable to close the app or restart the device. Additionally, the app might ask for excessive permissions, like 'accessibility' access. In light of this, phone users are urged to take extra precautions, especially when encountering unresponsive 'banking apps' or generic-looking apps such as file managers or phone cleaners. Asking you to re-authenticate during an active session, install strange updates or follow strange prompts may signal that something's amiss. Even if an app is legitimate, fraudsters can potentially use techniques that display fake login screens on top to steal login details. The organisations warned that many international crime groups are at the heart of mobile attacks. Mike Haley, CEO of Cifas, commented: "The surge in Android malware is not just a tech issue – it's a growing threat to consumers and to banking services we all rely on. Criminals are evolving their tactics faster than ever, using deception and stealth to bypass traditional security measures. "The best defence is awareness. If something feels off – an unexpected update, a strange app request – stop before you tap and always seek a second opinion. Education and vigilance are our frontline tools in the fight against fraud." Meanwhile, Han Sahin, CEO of ThreatFabric, said: "Just as we've learned to be cautious with links, we now need the same vigilance when installing apps. This is the logical next step in staying safe, and public awareness is crucial." Dianne Doodnath, principal of economic crime at UK Finance, also added: "We encourage customers to stay alert to all threats of fraud, including the potential for criminals to trick people into downloading malware onto phones which could put your personal and finance information at risk of theft. "It's important that you keep your phone security system up-to-date and always download from trusted sources to ensure you're protected from the risk of fraud and data harvesting." How can phone users stay safe? The organisations have compiled five key tips. These include: Only download apps from trusted sources. Check app reviews and developer information before installing. Keep your device's operating system and apps up to date. Report suspect apps or activity to your bank immediately. Be wary of apps requesting unnecessary permissions.
Hindustan Times
11 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Will Indian-origin CEOs caught up in browser battle, Comet aiming to strike Google
In recent months, the AI war between tech giants has drastically shifted from AI chatbots to AI-powered browsers. Companies like Google, OpenAI, and Perplexity have already laid the foundations towards the shift. However, Perplexity's new Comet browser has been gaining much attention recently, as a potential replacement for Chrome. Know how Google Chrome is constantly making advancements, and why it's a challenge for Perplexity's Comet.(MINT_PRINT) With Comet, Perplexity plans to revamp how users conduct searches or interact with browsers, and Google Chrome's dominance could be the biggest factor in attracting users. For many, Chrome is not just a browser but a vast ecosystem that provides users with AI advancement, synchronisation across devices, security, and much more. Whereas Perplexity is just getting started, and it will take a great deal of time and effort to convince users to make the switch. Now, as Chrome and Comet are caught up in a browser battle, will the new AI browser be able to make its space in the competitive market? Google is already running one step ahead by vastly rolling out its 'AI Mode' across devices and other constant efforts that make it reliable for users, but challenging for Perplexity Comet. Google's efforts to keep users on Chrome We are all aware of the fact that Google Chrome is famous for being a dominant web browser, and it is just a title it gained overnight. Google has established its image among users that comes from strategic planning. While many questions regarding the future of Chrome with AI, Google is smartly playing its bet to retain its user base. We have found a few factors that keep users hooked to Chrome: User experience: As mentioned earlier, Chrome is not just a web browser but a vast ecosystem that helps enhance user experience. The browser seamlessly integrates with Google services and syncs data, including tabs, history, passwords, bookmarks, and others, across devices. Therefore, it is quite easy to access Chrome's data and recent research. Additionally, users also get extension support for various security and AI tools. Constant innovation: Another reason that makes Chrome stand out from other browsers is constant innovation, deeper AI integration, new features, timely updates, and more that make it reliable and credible. Recently, we witnessed the 'AI Mode' wave and how swiftly it integrates with Search, providing relevant information in a summarised manner along with links to sources. User security: Chrome browser offers several built-in features which can also be customised by users, such as cookie and data management, privacy controls, and more. Furthermore, every now and then, Google enhances user security to protect them from scams and malicious websites. Why this could be the biggest challenge for Perplexity Comet While Comet is introduced as a powerful AI browser, the tool will initially struggle to gain users since it has an entirely new ecosystem. Therefore, establishing habits is challenging when users are acquainted with a tool for years. Hence, the transition could be complex for many users. Yet, Perplexity plans to gain its space as the default browser. Additionally, Comet will constantly need to prove its performance and capabilities over Chrome dominance, and this could only be done once it gains trust in terms of security, ecosystem, new features, and other crucial advancements. Another major deterrent for users to adopt Comet is the subscription model. To gain access, users must opt for the Perplexity Max subscription, which operates on an invitation-only basis. Whereas, Chrome is free to use, which not only attracts users but also helps companies monetise via Google Search and advertising. Mobile Finder: Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold LATEST specs, features, and price
Express Tribune
13 hours ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
Google Chrome's latest feature uses AI to provide store summaries
Google has announced a new update to its Chrome web browser aimed at improving the shopping experience for US consumers. The update, introduced last week through a blog post, has AI-generated store reviews, accessible by clicking an icon next to the web address in the browser. These summaries will provide shoppers with key information on store reputation, including product quality, pricing, customer service, returns, and overall shopping experience. The feature, which is currently available only in English, pulls reviews from partners such as Bazaarvoice, Trustpilot, Yotpo, and others. At launch, it will be available on Chrome for desktop, though Google has not confirmed whether it will be available on mobile devices in the future, as reported by Tech Crunch. Google Chrome adds AI-powered store summaries to help US shoppers | TechCrunch — TechCrunch (@TechCrunch) July 28, 2025 Google's goal with these AI-generated summaries is to enhance the safety and efficiency of online shopping. The company is positioning this feature as a response to similar AI initiatives from Amazon, which has been using AI to summarise product ratings, offer clothing size recommendations, and more. This update comes at a time when Google faces increasing competition from new AI-powered browsers, such as Perplexity's Comet and The Browser Company's Dia, which could challenge Chrome's dominance. Our latest shopping features are here to help you explore your style and get the best price 👗 - Our try on experience launches today in the U.S., which means you can try on your 'new semester, new me' outfits before you buy. - Use our updated price alerts, which let you set… — Google (@Google) July 24, 2025 As a result, Google is working to integrate AI features more directly into its browser, including developing an AI agent capable of managing Chrome on users' behalf and expanding support for its Gemini AI assistant. The AI-powered store summaries are part of a broader initiative by Google to create a more modern shopping platform, with the company also exploring AI-powered tools for personalised product recommendations, price tracking, and agentic checkout.
