Fake Google Chrome downloaded more than 100,000 times
Most likely, it was a chatbot with unknown functionality
Initially, an app disguised as the game Ball Bounce appeared in the Play Store. However, its developer subsequently changed the product’s name and icon to Google Chrome. Apparently, the program concealed a chatbot with preset response options and virtual characters, having no connection to either the browser or the stated game. No information about password leaks or other malicious activity was recorded.
The Ball Bounce game was published on the platform on August 22, and an update disguising it as “Google Chrome” was released as early as September 30. During the day on August 20, Google introduced a 24-hour delay for downloading software from unverified creators. Earlier, in June, the IT giant announced a schedule for mandatory developer moderation: at the first stage, the measure will affect apps in a number of stores, and by 2027 it will become global and apply to any installations.
