The internet is a dangerous place, and we're all aware of it. But even when browsing seemingly safe platforms like shopping apps, our devices are still at risk. What you might not know is that a group of Chinese shopping apps containing malware are threatening the privacy of hundreds of millions of users worldwide.

Imagine clicking on a product link in a Facebook ad that leads you to the app store. You see a great deal on headphones, so you download the app. The app does its job, you buy your headphones. The deal is great. But here's the rub: you have no idea the app is quietly collecting all your personal data — your chats, photos, contacts, browsing history, everything.

Now, instead of the headphone deal being so great, you realize you've actually handed over your privacy for discount headphones.

Malware isn't just in sketchy, untrusted apps. You might think the apps you download from a seemingly secure app store are perfectly safe, right? You'd be fooling yourself. This type of malware often conceals itself within apps that seem perfectly harmless. This can lead malicious actors to gain access to your device, potentially even control it remotely for nefarious purposes.

So what can we do to protect ourselves? Experts say to carefully vet any app before downloading it. Read reviews, look for indications that the app doesn't belong to a trustworthy company. Be wary of apps that ask for overly broad permissions, especially apps that can access your location, contacts, camera, and microphone. If you already think your device is infected with malware, don't wait — remove the app from your phone and install reliable security software and antivirus programs.

It's not just the apps themselves but also the stores where they come from. We are increasingly interacting with apps from outside the traditional Google Play or Apple App stores. Often these rogue app stores are designed to look just like their official counterparts. It's crucial to look critically at what looks like a known store, as it could just be a disguised effort to deceive and potentially steal your data.

Of course, the best protection is constant awareness and vigilance over any app with access to your personal information.