Google Play Store listings for fake WhatsApp and Chrome apps draw scrutiny after 600,000 downloads
Sponsored search listings allowed counterfeit versions of major apps to bypass standard checks and accumulate massive download numbers.
A copycat version of WhatsApp Messenger on the Google Play Store has passed 500,000 downloads after appearing in paid sponsored slots above the genuine application, raising fresh concerns over marketplace verification for millions of Android users.
The fake WhatsApp listing came to light shortly after Google removed a counterfeit Google Chrome browser app that had tricked more than 100,000 users into downloading it. In both instances, developers exploited promoted search placements and platform features to impersonate trusted services.
How the fake WhatsApp and Chrome apps operated
The fake WhatsApp application was uploaded under the developer name "Agment Assets sallu". To deceive users searching for the service, the listing duplicated the official WhatsApp logo, promotional screenshots, and store description.
Crucially, the developer made use of Google Play's Early Access program. By placing the application in early access, public user reviews and star ratings were disabled, preventing early downloaders from leaving public warnings about the clone's true nature. In contrast, the real WhatsApp Messenger has logged more than 10 billion downloads and over 246 million reviews on the platform.
The fake Chrome app took a different path to bypass initial checks. Listed under the developer name "Hizbartech", the application was originally submitted to the Play Store as a simple game called "Ball Bounce". Once approved, the developer altered its title, icon, and branding to mimic Google Chrome. Users who installed the application reported that instead of a web browser, it loaded a basic contact and chat application featuring artificial intelligence avatars.
Comparing the fake apps on Google Play Store
| App impersonated | Developer listed | Downloads reached | Method used | Current status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WhatsApp Messenger | Agment Assets sallu | Over 500,000 | Early access program & sponsored slot | Reported live |
| Google Chrome | Hizbartech | Over 100,000 | Name change from 'Ball Bounce' & sponsored slot | Removed |
How to verify official apps before downloading
With digital banking, public services, and daily communications relying heavily on smartphone applications across India, digital hygiene remains essential. Users can verify apps using a few distinct indicators before hitting install.
First, inspect the developer name listed directly beneath the app title rather than relying on recognized branding or top search placement. Second, check total download numbers and review counts. Flagship applications like WhatsApp or Chrome display hundreds of millions or billions of downloads alongside verified badges. Finally, be cautious of apps in sponsored slots that disable user reviews or request unnecessary device permissions.
Key numbers
| What | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Fake WhatsApp downloads | Over 500,000 | Google Play Store listing details reported by Android Authority |
| Fake Google Chrome downloads | Over 100,000 | Google Play Store listing details reported by Reddit users and tech publications |
| Official WhatsApp download count | Over 10,000,000,000 | Official Google Play Store listing |
In this story
| Name | Role in the story |
|---|---|
| Google Play Store | The digital application distribution platform where the fake apps appeared. |
| Google Chrome | Web browser whose application was impersonated on the store. |
| Messaging service whose application was cloned and listed on the store. |
