Pokemon Go: download official apps only

Privacy fears about the Pokemon Go app have been largely addressed, but dozens of other apps that piggy back on the popular game have raised further concerns.

Since the game launched in early July, a swarm of unofficial apps has emerged and is trying to capitalize on the title’s success.  Many of these unofficial apps are hungry for your personal data.

These unofficial apps have been offering cheats, tips and even songs from the hit game.  In exchange, they demand permission to access sensitive data on your phone.

If permission is granted, the apps can collect contacts lists, photos and even login credentials to social media accounts.  They can even take control of your phone’s camera and microphone.  Any data collected could be traded for profit to legitimate marketing firms or on the black market.

I found an app called “Fake GPS for Pokemon Go” on the Google Play Store that essentially allows a player to cheat.  However, the app also asks for permission to send SMS text messages.  In a worst case scenario, the app could secretly send SMS messages to a premium rate number, generating money for the developers, and a high phone bill for you if those messages exceed your data allowance.

It is no surprise if unscrupulous people are trying to cash-in on the Pokemon Go craze.  Hit mobile games usually result in copycat titles, some of which carry Trojans.

If you want to download apps for Pokemon Go ensure they have been endorsed by reputable developers.