A fake WhatsApp messenger app that was practically undetectable to the average user was downloaded more than a million times from Google Play Store before it was deleted.
The bogus app was a scam used to send fake vouchers offering savings at Asda, Tesco and Aldi; as long as the user followed a link to an online survey asking for personal details.
According to Reddit users, the fake app also contained advertisements which could download software to users’ devices.
The ‘Update WhatsApp Messenger’ app appeared like WhatsApp Inc, the ‘real’ developed firm, had created it.
The fake app creators used the same name, but instead replaced the space with a special character that looks like a space.
According to the BBC: “The subtle difference would have been practically undetectable to the average user.”
It is not the first time that Google has had to delete fake malicious apps from its Play Store.