The MetaTrader 4 software is genuine and free — the risk is where you get it. Because MT4 is everywhere, scammers publish look-alike apps and "MT4 setup" downloads designed to capture your login or install malware. Here's how to avoid them.
How fake MT4 apps appear
- Cloned mobile apps — look-alike "MetaTrader 4" listings from unknown developers.
- Random "MT4.exe" downloads — files from ad links, search results, or "free MT4 download" sites that aren't your broker.
- Phishing links — an email, WhatsApp, or Telegram message with a "download MT4 here" link to a fake page.
- Fake-broker skins — the real terminal, but pre-configured to a scam broker's server so your deposits go to them.
How to spot a fake
- Check the developer — the genuine mobile apps are published by MetaQuotes; desktop installers come from your broker.
- Match the link to your broker's real domain — type it yourself; don't trust a link from a message or ad.
- Beware unusual requests — an "MT4" asking for card details up front, remote access, or odd device permissions is not legitimate.
- Sanity-check reviews and downloads — a brand-new listing with few reviews impersonating a major app is a red flag.
The official terminal is the same software whoever distributes it — so there's never a reason to grab it from a random site. Get it from your broker's official website or the app store listing they point you to. If a "broker" only offers MT4 via a private link, treat that as a serious warning sign, and verify the regulation first. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.
Get MetaTrader 4 from a source you can verify
The safest MT4 comes from a regulated broker's official site. OANDA is heavily regulated (FCA, ASIC, MAS, US CFTC/NFA); our install guide walks through the official route.
⚠ Trading forex and CFDs is high-risk and most retail traders lose money. This is not financial advice.
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission if you open a broker account through our links, at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Related
Get the genuine platform via how to install MT4 or your device guide (PC, Android, iPhone). Then verify your broker and read the wider MT4 scams guide.
Frequently asked questions
Are there fake MT4 apps?
Yes. Because MetaTrader 4 is so popular, scammers create look-alike apps and 'MT4 setup' files that aren't the real platform — or that are the real platform pointed at a fake broker. They can steal your login, drain a funded account, or install malware. The software itself is legitimate; the danger is downloading it from the wrong place.
How do I know if an MT4 app is real?
Get it only from your broker's official website or the official app store listing your broker links to. Check the developer (the genuine mobile apps are published by MetaQuotes), match the download link to your broker's real domain, and never install an 'MT4.exe' sent by email, ad, or message. If in doubt, ask your broker's support for the official link.
Why was MT4 removed from the app stores?
Apple and Google removed the MetaTrader apps in September 2022; MetaTrader 5 later returned and MT4 mobile availability has varied by store and region since. That gap is exactly why fakes appear — so the safest route is the official download link your broker provides.
I downloaded a fake MT4 — what should I do?
Uninstall it, change your trading password and any reused passwords immediately, and contact your broker. If you entered card or bank details, contact your bank. Run a malware scan on the device. Then get the genuine app from your broker's official source.
Trading foreign exchange and contracts for difference (CFDs) carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Leverage can work against you as well as for you. You could lose some or all of your deposited funds; do not trade with money you cannot afford to lose. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Nothing on MT4Download.com is financial, investment, or trading advice. Consider your circumstances and seek independent advice if needed.