Scam Apps Disguised as ChatGPT Uncovered by Sophos

Cybersecurity firm Sophos has discovered several mobile apps that disguise themselves as ChatGPT-based chatbots to overcharge users. These rogue apps have appeared on both Google Play and Apple App Store. The free versions include non-operational ads that convince users to subscribe to a service that costs hundreds of dollars annually. Once subscribed, these apps, deemed by Sophos as ‘fleeceware,’ offer users minimal functionality, so many delete the app without realizing they still have to make payments. Sophos investigated and found that the ChatGPT fleeceware apps overcharged for standard functionality and used coercive tactics to get users to sign up for recurring payments. This type of app inflates its rating through fake reviews and persistent requests for user feedback. Sophos has previously discovered this ilk of apps in 2019. As of now, these apps are designed to stay within the law, but they continue to lure end-users into scams. Google and Apple have implemented new rules to try and curb fleeceware, but these rules are not enough, with Sophos claiming that developers still find ways to deceive users. Sophos has already reported the ChatGPT fleeceware apps to Apple and Google, and users who have been duped are advised to follow the guides on the App Store or Google Play Store to unsubscribe.