Palos Park, IL – The Palos Park Police Department is alerting residents to be cautious when downloading apps from official stores, warning that not all listings are as safe as they appear.
According to the department, cybercriminals often design malicious apps that mimic legitimate ones, tricking users into installing software that can steal data or infect devices with viruses. Officers are encouraging the public to take simple precautions before downloading any unfamiliar app.
“Just because it’s on the app store doesn’t mean it’s safe,” the department said in a recent social media post. Users are advised to skim one-star reviews for red flags, perform a quick web search for reported issues, and be wary of apps requesting unnecessary permissions or developed by unknown sources.
The post emphasizes that spending a few seconds researching can prevent costly data breaches or personal information theft. Police also note that cybercriminals are increasingly targeting smartphone users, who often assume that app stores automatically filter out unsafe software.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant, especially during the holiday season when new apps and games trend among consumers.
A few moments of awareness, police say, can help safeguard both personal devices and broader digital infrastructure.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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