Is an App Store or Google Play listing for a cryptocurrency wallet always genuine?
No. Fake crypto wallet apps make it through both platforms' review processes and steal funds from users who install them.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Both the Apple App Store and Google Play have had fake cryptocurrency wallet apps that closely mimic the branding of well-known wallets. When you set up the fake app and enter a recovery seed or fund it, the attackers immediately drain your balance. Some fake apps ask you to enter a seed phrase during setup — a real wallet either generates a new seed for you or asks you to import one only when restoring an existing wallet. Others create their own wallets but send a copy of the private key to the attacker. Always download wallet apps by following a link from the official project website rather than by searching in the app store.
Common red flags
- App found by searching the app store rather than following the official site link
- App prompts you to enter your existing seed phrase during setup
- App name or logo is slightly different from the official wallet
- Developer name does not match the official organisation
- Few reviews or reviews that seem inconsistent with app quality
What to do now
- Only install wallets by following a link from the official project website
- Never enter your seed phrase into any app you are not certain is genuine
- If you entered a seed phrase, move assets to a new wallet immediately
- Report fake apps to the app store using the report feature
Frequently asked questions
How do I find the official app link?
Go to the wallet project's official website — verify it is the correct domain — and follow the download link from there. Do not rely on search results in the app store.