The Better Business Bureau is warning people to be cautious when purchasing used cellphones online – saying malicious software could be hidden on the devices. “There have been reports in recent months of consumers buying refurbished cellphones and later discovering there is spyware installed,” says Mary O’Sullivan-Andersen, president and CEO of BBB Serving Alberta and East Kootenay. “Some of these devices being purchased also have data left over from a previous owner or worse so-called sideload apps that have been installed to avoid the official apps security.” O’Sullivan-Andersen says malware can lead to cyberattacks, stolen data or an opportunity for scammers to access the consumer’s most private and important data – including banking and credit card information. To avoid being victimized, the BBB offers this advice:
