While digital threats used to be limited to the PC, they are now also a direct threat on the street. Criminals use so-called quishing to gain access to the bank accounts of smartphone users. There is currently a free app that can prevent this.
The two app stores from Google and Apple, the Play Store and the App Store, contain an almost endless number of applications. Some of these apps are free, while others require payment. But what many users don’t know: Many paid apps are also temporarily available for free if they are part of a special offer. We have put together some of the most exciting apps that are currently available for free.
Free Pro Apps (Android)
- QR and barcode scanner PRO (
$4.49): Criminals use quishing to place dangerous QR codes on the street or send them by email. Anyone who falls for the scam is threatened with empty accounts. Unless you know in advance which URL is hidden behind a QR code. And that’s exactly what this app does—unlike many other QR code scanners. - Stitch Photos: Long Screenshot (
$2.99): This app allows you to take long screenshots of websites or entire chat histories. In addition, the application offers numerous practical functions, such as the option to cut out advertising blocks directly or remove the scroll bar. - The Lonely Hacker (
$2.99): According to the developers, real security experts have worked on this game. This is intended to give players at least a rudimentary realistic picture of everyday life as a hacker. But first and foremost, the simulator is simply an app that is supposed to be fun. - Color wheel (
$1.99): If you have a good eye for colors, this app can offer you a lot of added value. Features include color wheels, color palettes, the ability to capture colors via the camera, fine-tuning controls, and grayscale.
Free Premium Apps (iOS)
- Tarantula vs Snake (
$1.99): This mini-game impresses with its simple arcade atmosphere. The focus is on a small spider and the task of weaving as large a spider’s web as possible. And all this without being eaten by a hungry snake. - ACDSee Pro (
$5.99): Few apps can boast such good ratings as this one. The tool offers three important photo functions: a convenient camera, a useful photo editor and a practical collage maker. A clear recommendation for all photo enthusiasts. - Aqueduct 101 (
$2.99): A creative puzzle game in which you build aqueducts and make water flow. Real fun for puzzle fans and a great way to pass the time. - The Bug Butcher (
$0.99): Behind this app is a humorous jump ‘n’ run shooter game in which you have to eliminate giant bugs. Simple and fun; also great as a side activity.
Free Apps with Traps—What to Look Out For
All the apps we present here were available for free at the time of publication of this article. Unfortunately, developers often don’t specify how long these offers last. So if you like an app, you shouldn’t wait too long and download it quickly.
However, before you download a free app, you should always take a look at the app page in the store. Because sometimes there are hidden stumbling blocks that you should be aware of.
In-app purchases and advertising
Most free apps either contain advertising or offer in-app purchases. However, some paid apps also do this. It is important to pay the necessary attention to these aspects, especially if the game is intended for children.
App permissions
Numerous apps collect user data and often sell it on. So if you want to be on the safe side, make sure that you only grant the permissions that the app really needs. An alarm clock, for example, does not need access to your cameras or contacts, and a flashlight should not be interested in your location data either.
