Government doesn’t want you to download these apps
Government of India in an advisory shared on Twitter is asking citizens to not download Oximeter apps on their mobile from unknown URLs. Claiming to check oxygen levels in the body, these fake apps could steal a user’s personal data like contacts and photographs stored on their mobile phone. These apps may also steal away the user’s biometric data from their mobile devices by asking biometric fingerprints to use the app.
Oximeter apps help one keep track of heartbeat and blood SpO2 levels. Precisely, they offer percentage of breathable oxygen depending on one’s altitude. The apps have gained popularity in recent times during the coronavirus outbreak.
“Some URL Links on internet are advertising to provide fake Mobile Oximeter Apps to check your oxygen level. Do not download such fake Oximeter Apps on your mobile, as these Apps may steal your personal or biometric data from your Mobile phone,” reads the latest tweet by Cyber Dost twitter handle. For those unaware, Cyber Dost is the safety and Cybersecurity awareness handle maintained by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.