Mobile security software company Lookout recently issued a warning about the Bazuc app, which pays users $0.001 for every text message they allow partner companies to send using their personal phone numbers.
The application, however, appears to violate the terms of service of several mobile phone, who have proceeded to discontinue services provided to users of the application.
Lookout points out that the key feature of Βazuc is that it helps companies avoid spam filters by sending messages through multiple user accounts.
Researchers say the app is widely used, with many of its customers being legitimate businesses. The app has reportedly been used by banks in the United States and Africa to send customer service messages.
“While Bazuc is not malware, it does put people at risk who choose to install it,” a security researcher at Lookout wrote. “Those who download the app are putting their personal information, name, and phone number at risk.”
The app's creator, Russell Loomis, responds in an e-mail that users are well aware of the risks of using the services, which are posted in large letters on the app's website.
