Rogue apps are on the rise, and they are not always easy to spot. These deceptive programs often appear harmless or even helpful, but can quietly expose sensitive data to cybercriminals. With identity-based attacks increasing, knowing how to recognize and prevent threats like these is essential to keeping your business safe.
The Alarming Rise of Identity-Based Cyber Threats
The latest Huntress 2025 Managed ITDR Report surveyed more than 600 IT professionals and revealed a troubling trend. About two-thirds of organizations have seen a spike in identity-driven incidents over the past three years.
At the heart of this surge are rogue apps. These are not always obvious threats; some mimic trusted platforms, while others sneak in as useful utilities. What they often have in common is a request for excessive access, such as your location or personal data, which they use for malicious purposes.
Steps to Safeguard Your Team and Technology
Rather than waiting for a breach to happen, it’s wise to be proactive. Here’s how your organization can stay ahead of rogue app threats.
Encourage Smarter Software Choices
Before installing any new app, it’s important to slow down and do some quick research. Encourage your staff to follow a few simple habits, such as:
- Reviewing app ratings and user feedback
- Confirming the developer’s identity
- Checking what permissions the app requests
- Downloading only from trusted sources
Quick training sessions and cheat sheets can also help team members recognize shady apps and avoid impulsive installs.
Use Unique, Strong Passwords
If one password is used across multiple apps or systems, it only takes one stolen credential to cause a major breach. That’s why unique, complex passwords matter so much.
Let tools like Google Password Manager or LastPass generate and manage your credentials. They’re designed to store and update them securely, saving you from both the hassle and the risk.
Stay Current With Updates
Every app and system has occasional security holes, and developers are constantly working to fix them. Keeping your software up to date helps close those gaps before attackers can exploit them.
Enable automatic updates wherever possible to stay protected without having to think about it.
Add a Layer of Protection With Antivirus Software
Firewalls help, but they aren’t the only line of defense. Modern threats require a more comprehensive approach.
Pair your firewall with a reliable antivirus or endpoint detection solution. These tools offer real-time protection, help detect unusual behavior, and can often block malware before it causes damage.
Staying Ahead of the Surge in Fake App Activity
More than a third of businesses say identity-based attacks account for at least 40 percent of their security incidents, and rogue apps are often the entry point.
Protecting your company’s data means taking action before an attack occurs. Make cybersecurity a shared responsibility. Train your team, enable multi-factor authentication, limit software access, and have a plan in place for when threats get through. Being prepared is one of the best defenses you can have.
