MyOnePAS app still in beta testing phase, says PAS

 

PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan (right) said users who had downloaded the MyOnePAS app could use its trial functions such as qibla finder and prayer time information. (Facebook pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: PAS has responded to claims that its MyOnePAS app poses a security risk, saying that the app is still in the beta testing phase and the party has requested developer PASpay Technology Sdn Bhd to tighten its security features.

Party mouthpiece Harakah reported PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan as saying that the app’s availability for download as an APK (Android app package) file was a temporary measure, while preparations were made for the next phase of development.

“PAS hears and understands concerns from the public, including information technology experts, on the recently launched MyOnePAS app.

“It is still in beta testing, with the main objectives of getting feedback and introducing the app to the public, especially PAS members,” he said.

Takiyuddin said users who had downloaded the app could use its trial functions such as qibla finder and prayer time information.

Technology experts had previously raised security concerns over MyOnePAS, which included features such as e-wallet functionality and bill payment services, as it was not available for download from registered platforms.

The app currently requires users to sideload it from a website, or instal it from sources other than the official app stores.

T Murugason, CEO of Novem CS, a cybersecurity company, had said sideloading apps posed a heightened risk of coming across malware or other malicious software.

“Certain apps may be embedded with spyware, which can harvest personal details from your device and relay them to undesirable parties,” he said.

Murugason said it would be better for users to download apps from official stores since these platforms perform rigorous screening to ensure they were free of malware.

Software engineer L Raaj advised users not to download the PAS app for now, saying the security risks associated with it were “high”.

However, he said he understood why the party would release the app as an APK, as developers might choose to do so initially because integration into official app stores could be time-consuming. - FMT