When it comes to fake apps, these four clues are a giveaway

The App Store (pictured) and Google Play sometimes contain apps that look legitimate, but will actually be used to scam you. (Handout, only to be used with this dpa trends item. Photo credit to Apple Inc / dpa mandatory.) Photo: Apple Inc/Apple Inc/dpa

Not all apps are genuine, even if they appear to be. Time and again, fake and potentially malicious apps have been smuggled into the App Store and Google Play.

For example, a fake update for WhatsApp recently found its way into Google Play. A million people reportedly downloaded it and then complained about being harassed by advertising.