15 Apps Serving as Entry Points for M-Banking Thieves Downloaded by 2 Million Indonesians

As technology continues to advance, the public must remain vigilant during digital activities to avoid falling victim to sophisticated fraud schemes that can lead to identity theft and significant financial loss. One of the most common methods used by scammers is ‘phishing’ via email or text messages, where victims are manipulated into clicking malicious links embedded with malware designed to steal sensitive financial information.

In addition to phishing, scammers are also embedding harmful software within mobile applications. A recent report from cybersecurity firm McAfee highlights 15 applications identified as dangerous due to their ability to steal personal data and breach bank accounts. According to McAfee, these applications have been downloaded approximately 8 million times, many of which are fraudulent online lending apps, often referred to as ‘Spy Loans’.

Of the 15 identified applications, three are active in Indonesia: RupiahKilat-Dana cair, KreditKu-Uang Online, and Dana Kilat-Pinjaman Kecil. These three apps have been installed by 2 million users in Indonesia. Although these apps are no longer available on the Google Play Store, users are advised to delete them immediately if they have already installed them to prevent unauthorised access.

McAfee notes that these malicious apps utilise the names, logos, and designs of legitimate financial services to deceive users. Scammers also utilise fake advertisements on social media, promising low interest rates and easy requirements to attract victims. Upon downloading, users are prompted to provide personal and financial data, which cybercriminals then use to terrorise victims by demanding exorbitant interest payments. This specific fraud pattern has targeted victims across South America, South Asia, and Africa.

The list of 15 dangerous applications, as cited from Tom’s Guide, includes:

• Préstamo Seguro-Rápido, Seguro (1 million downloads)

• Préstamo Rápido-Credit Easy (1 million downloads)

• Get Baht Easily - Quick Loan (1 million downloads)

• RupiahKilat-Dana cair (1 million downloads)

• Borrow Happil - Loan (1 million downloads)

• Happy Money (1 million downloads)

• KreditKu - Uang Online (500,000 downloads)

• Dana Kilat - Pinjaman Kecil (500,000 downloads)

• Cash Loan-Vay tiền (500,000 downloads)

• RapidFinance (100,000 downloads)

• PrêtPourVous (100,000 downloads)

• Huayna Money - Préstamo Rápido (100,000 downloads)

• IPréstamos: Rápido Crédito (100,000 downloads)

• ConseguirSol-Dinero Rápido (100,000 downloads)

• ÉcoPrêt Prêt En Ligne (100,000 downloads)

Users are urged to exercise extreme caution when installing applications on their mobile devices.