AI chatbots have become a popular tool in recent times, with companies like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft creating their own versions. However, along with this innovation comes a new opportunity for cybercriminals to deceive users. Scammers are now developing fake AI chatbot apps with the aim of defrauding unsuspecting individuals. In this article, we will explore what to watch out for and how to avoid falling victim to these fraudulent apps.
What’s the issue with AI chatbot apps? According to a report from cybersecurity firm Sophos, scammers are creating fake apps that claim to be similar to reputable chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT. These fake apps flood app stores, luring people into downloading them. Although most of these apps are free to download, they restrict access to their key features unless users purchase a subscription, which can be as high as $69.99 per month.
These scammers employ aggressive advertising tactics to entice users, while falsely claiming that their apps have the same features as popular chatbots like ChatGPT and Bing Chat. Fake 4- and 5-star reviews are also created to deceive users into thinking that the apps are legitimate. However, upon closer inspection, one can notice that these positive reviews are often short and lacking detail, while other comments highlight the app’s non-functionality.
Here is a list of some fake apps masquerading as genuine AI chatbot apps:
1. Chat GBT: This app pretended to be an alternative to ChatGPT but bombarded users with ads and limited their access to services after just three attempts. It prompted users to pay $10 per month or $30 per year for usage. Many users who paid reported that the app failed to respond to questions and displayed numerous advertisements. This app has since been removed from the Google Play Store.
2. AI Chatbot Assistant – Ask AI: Similar to Chat GBT, this app restricts users to three inputs per day before locking them out and pressuring them to enroll in a paid three-day trial, which then converts into a $6-per-week subscription fee. Users have criticized the app for providing brief responses and resembling gibberish.
3. AI Chat GBT – Open Chatbot App: This app offers a limited free version with only four prompts before it prompts users to subscribe. It lacked satisfactory answers to questions and had excessive advertisements. Fortunately, it has been removed from the Google Play Store.
4. Chat AI Ask Chatbot Assistant: This app is still available in the App Store and attempts to mimic the logo of OpenAI. It requests users to allow tracking across various websites and constantly pressures them to pay a $8-per-week subscription fee. Additionally, the app frequently changes its name, going by AIChatChabot, Pocket AI Chat, or Writing BOT Pocket AI.
5. Genie – AI Chatbot: This app, still present in the App Store, employs similar tactics as other fake apps. It asks for permission to track users upon installation and prompts them to rate the app before even using it. It also offers subscription options, such as a three-day free trial followed by a $7-per-week fee or an annual $70 fee. Users are limited to four free questions per day without opting for the trial.
6. AI Chatbot – Open Chat AI: Initially known as “AI Smith” and also using the name “AI Chatbot – Open Chat Writer,” this app displays different screenshots on the App Store than what users see after installation. It imposes a five-message limit per day without a subscription and frequently bombards users with prompts to pay for subscriptions, provide ratings, or view unwanted ads.
To identify potential red flags, users should exercise caution and follow these tips:
1. Avoid downloading apps from third-party sites as they are more likely to contain fake apps. Stick to trusted sources like the Apple Store or Google Play Store.
2. Steer clear of using chatbots from smaller brands until they have established their legitimacy. Stick to major companies like OpenAI, Bing, and Google for guaranteed safety.
3. Check the developer details of an app. Legitimate apps are usually developed by well-known companies or developers with a track record of reputable apps. Look for contact information, website links, and other indicators of legitimacy.
4. Visit the official website of the AI chatbot provider (e.g., OpenAI, Google, Microsoft) to verify if they have released an official app. They often provide information about their authorized apps and links to download them from trusted sources.
5. Avoid providing personal information such as contact details, banking information, or Social Security numbers when using chatbots. Reputable companies do not require such information.
6. Read multiple reviews before downloading an app, paying attention to both positive and negative feedback. Be cautious of apps with suspiciously positive reviews, as scammers can create fake reviews to deceive users. Trust your judgment and consider the legitimacy of an app based on reviews and tips from trustworthy sources.
7. Pay attention to the permissions requested by an app during installation. Be wary if an app seeks excessive permissions unrelated to its functionality. Only grant necessary permissions for the app to operate.
8. Regularly update your device’s operating system, apps, and security software to ensure you benefit from bug fixes and security enhancements.
By following these guidelines and exercising vigilance, users can safeguard themselves against fake AI chatbot apps and potential cyber threats.
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