Spotify is already available as a free app for Windows Phone devices from the Windows Phone Marketplace, and now it would seem that a developer called khanmish has managed to sneak a Spotify app into the Windows Phone Marketplace and is charging for the application.
The fake Spotify app is being sold for $9.99 or £0.79 through the Windows Phone Marketplace, and for your $0.99 all you get is some music news feeds, so basically the app is a complete scam.
Understanding the Issue
The presence of fake apps in app marketplaces is not a new phenomenon. These fraudulent applications often mimic popular apps to deceive users into paying for something that offers little to no value. In this case, the fake Spotify app is particularly egregious because Spotify is already available for free. The developer, khanmish, is exploiting the popularity of Spotify to make a quick profit by charging unsuspecting users $9.99 or £0.79 for an app that only provides music news feeds.
This kind of scam not only affects users financially but also tarnishes the reputation of legitimate app developers and the marketplace itself. Users who fall victim to such scams may become wary of downloading apps in the future, even from reputable sources.
Steps to Avoid Fake Apps
To avoid falling victim to fake apps, users should take several precautions:
1. Check the Developer Information: Always verify the developer’s name and check for any reviews or ratings. Legitimate developers usually have a history of creating other apps.
2. Read Reviews: User reviews can provide valuable insights into the app’s functionality and legitimacy. Be cautious if an app has no reviews or only negative feedback.
3. Look for Official Logos and Descriptions: Official apps often have polished descriptions and logos. Any discrepancies in these areas can be a red flag.
4. Verify Through Official Channels: If in doubt, visit the official website of the app or service to find direct links to their legitimate app.
Hopefully, Microsoft will have this fake app removed from the Marketplace shortly, although according to the guys from Wpcentral, the app has been there since the 20th of December.
The delay in removing such apps can be attributed to the verification process that marketplaces like Windows Phone Marketplace have to follow. They need to ensure that the app is indeed fraudulent before taking it down, which can sometimes take time. However, this delay can result in more users falling victim to the scam.
Source The Verge
Image Credit The Verge
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