A data harvesting app called Freecash has been banned from the App Store after a recent investigation found it was using deceptive marketing techniques to trick users. The app, which was marketed as a way for users to make money by scrolling through TikTok, was actually collecting sensitive user data and promoting mobile games. According to cybersecurity company Malwarebytes, the app may be collecting information about users' race, religion, sex life, sexual orientation, health, and other biometrics.
Freecash's downloads shot up in January 2026, reaching 5.5 million across global app stores. The app was even listed as the No. 2 position on the U.S. App Store before being removed due to Apple's concerns about its misleading marketing. Google has not yet pulled Freecash from its Play store. Almedia, the Germany-based company behind Freecash, denied allegations of using deceptive marketing techniques.
Freecash was originally created under a different developer account in 2024, but it was removed after two months due to policy violations. The app was later rebranded and submitted again under a new developer account, possibly to circumvent the ban. Apple's App Store guidelines prohibit apps that try to trick its review system by doing things like circumventing bans.
