This is a CTAS notification alert from CCR Technology Partners. CCR’s Security team has received an alert from the Federal Trade Commission regarding fraudulent mobile applications that can either steal a user’s’ identity or spread malware to the phone or tablet being used.

Many of these fraudulent applications impersonate well-known retailers and promise enticing deals or features. However, once installed, these applications can steal banking information, and possibly install ransomware onto the device, requiring a ransom payment to unlock it.

CCR advises users to make sure that they do not install mobile applications from unknown sources outside of the Google Play and iTunes App Stores. By default, most mobile devices will block applications installed from unknown sources, but not all devices may have that setting configured. It is important to note that while this will help prevent many malicious applications from being installed on mobile devices, it is not guaranteed to completely prevent it from happening. It is also important to see if the service that supposedly offers the app actually promotes it. If they will, they will direct users to the app store directly to their legitimate mobile application.

The CCR CTAS Notification System was created to keep you informed of possible threats to your corporate network environment.

Call the CCR Helpdesk at (317) 842-1754 or visit www.GoCCR.com if you need further information or believe you may have been affected by this malware.