Google has issued a high-priority fraud advisory warning that a rising number of malicious apps are masquerading as VPN services — and many are designed to steal sensitive information rather than protect it (Fake VPN apps) . The advisory, amplified by security outlets and major tech press, highlights how attackers package info-stealers, banking trojans and remote-access malware inside apparently legitimate VPN apps and extensions to trick users into handing over passwords, messages, and financial credentials.
What’s happening and why it matters
Cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting the popularity of privacy tools by creating “fake VPN” apps that look legitimate: polished store listings, forged reviews, and convincing branding. Once installed, these apps can request intrusive permissions or drop payloads that exfiltrate browsing history, intercept two-factor codes, or inject overlays to capture banking logins. This trend is particularly dangerous because users expect VPNs to protect them — not become a vector for theft.
Google’s advisory is part of a broader crackdown on app-based fraud: the company is urging users to enable Play Protect, avoid sideloading apps from untrusted sites, and carefully vet VPN providers before installing. The advisory also points to recent incidents where browser extensions and mobile VPNs were found to contain spyware and banking trojans.
How the malware works — real examples
Researchers and security vendors have documented several attack patterns:
Info-stealers hidden in VPN wrappers: The app functions as a VPN superficially but includes code that scrapes credentials and sends them to attacker servers.
Overlay and RAT (Remote Access Trojan): Some malicious VPNs install overlays that mimic banking screens or enable remote control once users try to log into sensitive services.
Fake extensions and cloned brands: Browser extensions that impersonate popular VPNs have delivered persistent spyware for months before detection.
These methods let attackers harvest authentication cookies, intercept SMS-based codes, and bypass common protections—turning a privacy tool into an attacker’s rake.
Who’s most at risk
Anyone downloading a free or little-known VPN app is at risk, but the greatest exposure is among:
Users seeking “free” VPNs and installing apps from third-party stores or links. (
People who accept broad permissions without checking (microphone, accessibility, SMS access).
Organizations with BYOD policies where employees install consumer VPNs on corporate devices.
Enterprises should be especially cautious: compromised personal devices with VPN malware can become a bridge into corporate networks.
How to spot and avoid fake VPN apps
Practical checks you can make before installing:
Check the publisher — prefer established vendors with a corporate website and verified store listing.
Read the privacy policy — legitimate VPNs are transparent about logging, data sharing, and contact information.
Review requested permissions — a VPN rarely needs microphone, SMS, or accessibility access. Any such requests are red flags.
Avoid sideloading — install only from official app stores and enable protections like Play Protect.
Use independent audits and reviews — look for third-party audits and reputable security reviews before trusting a VPN.
Expert perspective
Security analysts say the problem is partly economic: free apps must monetize somehow, and lacking transparent subscription revenue, some resort to data harvesting or embedding malicious code. Google’s advisory and subsequent reporting from security firms emphasize that users should treat any app promising privacy for free with skepticism. One researcher quoted in coverage warned that the “trust paradox” — trusting a privacy tool implicitly — makes these campaigns especially effective.
Conclusion and recommended actions
Google’s warning is a clear signal: not all VPNs are created to protect you. To stay safe, install VPN apps only from well-known providers with clear policies, avoid free or obscure downloads, check permissions closely, and use device protections such as Play Protect. For organizations, enforce app-whitelisting and educate staff on the risks of installing consumer VPNs on corporate devices. The convenience of a “free” VPN is not worth the potential cost of stolen credentials and financial loss.
