No app store can truly exist without having some crap apps in its arsenal. Microsoft’s Windows Store for Windows 8 and Windows RT is no exception. It appears that there are a plethora of fake VLC apps in the Windows Store, hot on the trail as VideoLan plans to release their official VLC app for Windows 8.1 and Windows RT.
Back in July of this year, we wrote a piece about how the Windows Store’s 100,000 app milestone wasn’t as impressive as we all thought. A quick look at the Windows Store revealed that there are many apps that are “deceptive” and trick you into purchasing the app, only to find out that its just some lame “tutorial.” The same goes with all the spam apps out there.
“Just because you see the app in the Windows Store, doesn’t mean the app is legitimate.”
This time around, we are seeing a lot of fake VLC apps for Windows 8.1 and Windows RT. For example, there is an app called VLC for Windows 8.1 which runs for a hefty $9.99 and deceives you into thinking it is the official VLC app. VideoLan, on the other hand, is still working on releasing the official VLC app.
Now, you may be thinking “how come Microsoft isn’t doing anything about these deceptive apps?” Well, Microsoft recently revealed during a Reddit AMA (ask me anything) that the company is constantly improving the Windows Store certification process to make it a “first class experience.” In other words, Microsoft is apparently still working on making the Store a better place. For now, VideoLan needs to contact Microsoft to get these deceptive apps out of the Store. You too can help by flagging these apps and leaving a review.
Microsoft has stated before that they “routinely” review apps based on performance, ratings, and user reviews. Microsoft will take appropriate measures to remove apps if they do not meet certification guidelines or if they bypass these guidelines somehow. So remember, your review and rating on any app in the Windows Store counts!
We would like to remind you to be extra cautious before purchasing an app in the Windows Store. Just because you see the app in the Windows Store, doesn’t mean the app is legitimate. If you have any questions, ask us and our community will help!
Further reading: VLC, Windows Store
