Global cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has issued a warning to mobile users in the Philippines about a rising wave of fake mobile apps designed to steal personal data and money. These apps, often disguised as legitimate tools like banking apps, e-wallets, and messaging platforms, are in fact Trojan bankers—malware that silently hijacks devices and enables cybercriminals to conduct unauthorized transactions.
According to Kaspersky, these malicious apps may appear and function like real ones but are capable of overlaying fake login screens or injecting code to gain remote control of infected devices. In 2024, users encountering mobile banking Trojans surged by 3.6 times compared to 2023, while crypto-related phishing detections jumped 83.4 percent.
“Cybercriminals are constantly refining their tactics, and fake mobile apps have become one of the most effective tools in their arsenal,” said Adrian Hia, Kaspersky’s Asia Pacific managing director. He warned that these apps can bypass security checks and cause severe financial damage.
In the Philippines, where mobile financial services are rapidly growing, users remain especially vulnerable. Kaspersky reported 82,565 financial phishing attempts in H1 2024, although this figure dropped to 59,115 in H1 2025—still highlighting persistent threats. Meanwhile, ransomware activity in the country saw a slight decline, with detections dropping from 0.24 percent to 0.22 percent in the same period.
Kaspersky advises users to download apps only from trusted sources, use multi-factor authentication, regularly review app permissions, and install reputable mobile security software. Businesses are urged to patch systems promptly, educate employees, and use strong access controls and threat detection systems.
Despite improvements in detection and prevention, Kaspersky emphasizes that vigilance remains key as cybercriminals continue targeting mobile users with increasingly sophisticated methods.
