- Neural Techlabs repeatedly uploads apps that mimic Google Gemini and OpenAI ChatGPT
- Apps use logos, names and interfaces to confuse unsuspecting users
- Removed apps keep reappearing, indicating errors in Apple’s review process
Apple’s Mac App Store is facing renewed scrutiny after several apps were discovered impersonating well-known AI products.
A developer account, Neural Techlabs, has been identified as repeatedly releasing applications that mimic official offerings from Google Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
These apps use brand logos, naming conventions and interface elements that resemble legitimate software, creating a high risk of user confusion.
Persistent violations despite removal
Investigations reveal that multiple linked developer accounts may belong to the same group, further raising concerns about coordinated fraud attempts.
Although some of these apps have been removed in the past due to intellectual property rights violations, new iterations still appear on the platform.
A current example, titled “AI Chat Bot for Google Gemini,” deliberately reflects Google’s branding and design language, making it difficult for users to distinguish it from the authentic product.
A previous app from the same developer, “AI Chat Bot Ask Assistant”, was also removed due to repeated violations of Apple’s platform rules.
Despite these removals, Neural Techlabs continues to release similar apps that explicitly reference OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
Making such references in metadata or descriptions is a direct violation of OpenAI’s branding guidelines.
These impersonating apps are not only deceptive, but can also expose users to practical security risks, as they may unwittingly download software that interacts with sensitive information or attempts to exploit trust in recognized brands.
While Apple employs a review process to identify violations, the repeated re-uploads of these applications indicate potential gaps in platform monitoring.
In some cases, downloaded apps can compromise devices in ways that traditional antivirus programs can the software may not detect immediately.
These risks are exacerbated by apps’ ability to access AI tools or external network resources, increasing the potential for malicious behavior.
The continued presence of fraudulent applications undermines confidence in the Mac App Store’s review mechanisms.
It also reveals the limits of current security measures, including firewall protection against untrusted software.
Users relying on the platform for AI experiences should exercise caution, verify developer credentials, and remain aware that brand impersonation can bypass basic security measures.
Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews and opinions in your feeds. Be sure to click the Follow button!
And of course you can too follow TechRadar on TikTok for news, reviews, video unboxings, and get regular updates from us on WhatsApp also.
