IBM experts concluded that 63% of all apps have security flaws - any cyber-criminal with the right know-how could thus access a user's personal information as well as corporate details.
The same study found that 73% of dating apps collect users' GPS coordinates. Potential attackers could use such information to draw up a summary of where the user resides, works and socializes.
Users' camera phones and microphones may also be compromised by exploiting the security loopholes in a number of these apps.
Credit card information is vulnerable with such apps. In conjunction with the location profile it would make it easier for a potential fraudster to complete successful 'carding' exercises.
Users are advised:
- To take special care with their passwords, follow the oft repeated (but often ignored) advice to mix letters, numbers, lower and upper case.
- Apply latest updates and patches to apps at the earliest possible opportunity
- Refrain from using untrusted/unsecured Wi-Fi connections
- Review app permissions prior to installation and after any software upgrade
- Promptly uninstall apps that you deem to be untrustworthy
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