Take Caution with ChatGPT-themed Apps – Here’s What You Need to Know

Since its launch on November 30, 2022, ChatGPT has become incredibly popular. Unfortunately, this popularity has also attracted scammers who are taking advantage of unsuspecting users by creating fake ChatGPT AI chatbots. This has led to an increase in malware attacks, with numerous apps and software posing as ChatGPT tools being released in recent months. According to researchers at Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42, a new wave of malware variants has emerged alongside the launch of OpenAI’s GPT-3.5 and GPT-4, specifically targeting users interested in using ChatGPT.

Further research by researchers has identified two different types of active malware. The first masquerades as “SuperGPT” but is actually the Meterpreter trojan. It is a GPT-4 powered AI assistant that can perform tasks such as writing emails, answering questions, and writing articles. In addition, it is equipped with speech recognition and language translation.

Another version poses as “ChatGPT” but instead sends messages to toll-free numbers in Thailand. If a malicious version of the app is successfully exploited, hackers can remotely access an Android device. Additionally, all of these sample APKs have the OpenAI logo, commonly associated with ChatGPT, as the app icon. This further promotes the misleading narrative that these apps are somehow connected to the ChatGPT AI tool.

Researchers have warned that the emergence of ChatGPT-themed APK malware poses a serious threat to the security and privacy of mobile devices. Such malware variants can steal sensitive data, engage in unauthorized spying on user activities, and cause significant financial damage.

What should ChatGPT users do?

• To protect yourself from such malware, you should take proactive steps. These include installing reliable antivirus software on your smartphone.
• Also, be careful when downloading apps from third-party sources.
• Always download apps from trusted sources. Also, always read carefully and verify who the creator of the app is before downloading.
• Update your device regularly with the latest security patches whenever they are available.