- Neural Techlabs repeatedly uploads apps that mimic Google Gemini and OpenAI ChatGPT
- Apps use logos, names and interfaces to confuse unsuspecting users
- Removed apps continue to appear, indicating errors in Apple’s review process
Apple’s Mac App Store is under renewed scrutiny after several apps were discovered disguised as known artificial intelligence products.
One developer account, Neural Techlabs, appears to be repeatedly launching apps that mimic Google’s official Gemini offering and OpenAI’s ChatGPT offering.
These applications use brand logos, naming conventions and user interface elements that resemble legitimate software, creating a high risk of confusion for users.
Despite removal, the violations remain
Research has shown that multiple linked developer accounts can belong to the same group, raising further concerns about coordinated fraud attempts.
Although some of these apps have been removed in the past due to intellectual property rights violations, new versions continue to appear on the platform.
A recent example titled “AI Chat Bot for Google Gemini” deliberately mirrors Google’s branding and design language, making it difficult for users to distinguish it from the original product.
An older 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.
Such references in metadata or descriptions are in direct violation of OpenAI’s trademark guidelines.
In addition to being deceptive, these fake apps can expose users to practical security risks as they may unknowingly download software that interacts with sensitive information or attempt to abuse trust in trusted brands.
Although Apple uses a review process to identify violators, repeated reloads of these apps indicate potential gaps in the platform’s monitoring.
In some cases, downloaded programs can compromise devices in the same way as traditional antivirus programs. The software may not detect this immediately.
These risks are exacerbated by the ability of applications to access artificial intelligence tools or external network resources, increasing the risk of malicious behavior.
The continued presence of rogue apps undermines confidence in the Mac App Store’s review mechanisms.
It also highlights the limitations of current security measures, including firewall protection against untrusted software.
Users who rely on the platform for their AI experiences should exercise caution, verify developer credentials, and be aware that counterfeiters can bypass basic security measures.