How the rewards app Freecash scammed its way to the top of the app stores
TechCrunch·5h ago·Anger
What Happened
Freecash, a rewards app that rose to number two on the U.S. App Store, has been removed by Apple following investigations into deceptive marketing practices. The app, owned by Germany-based Almedia, collected sensitive user data including race, religion, and health information while promoting mobile games. TikTok removed some Freecash ads in January for financial misrepresentation. Downloads peaked at 6 million in February 2026 before declining. The app had been previously removed from the App Store in June 2024.
Key Entities
FreecashAlmedia GmbHApple App StoreGoogle PlayTikTokMalwarebytes256 Rewards Ltd