It's happening again: Google has removed malicious apps that have stolen information from users
Install apps without thinking?
This can cost you dearly: Researchers have identified malicious applications for Android that contained a malware called "Joker", which allowed, among other things, to register users for paid services without their knowledge.
The full list
Yinon Ben Shoshan
25/11/2021
Thursday, 25 November 2021, 12:57 Updated: 13:16
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Cyber (Photo: GettyImages)
Google has removed from the Android app store, Play Store, 15 apps that were able to secretly register users for expensive subscription services, and even collect personal information, along with the installation of a variety of other malicious apps - according to a report by cyber protection company Kaspersky.
"In recent weeks, we've found out about the expanding activity of Spyware 'Joker' impersonating many services and entertainment apps in the Google App Store," said Tatyana Shiskova, a security expert at Kaspersky.
"Although most of the infected apps that have been removed have already been removed from Google's app stores, we advise users to be extra careful when downloading new apps, especially in cases where they are downloaded from unknown sources. We also recommend checking the permissions given to each app," added Shirshkova.
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Google's PLAY Store (Photo: ShutterStock)
On the face of it, the identified apps have provided users with legitimate services - like barcode scanning (QR), flashlight, TV remote control, VPN connection and a designed keyboard.
How can we protect ourselves?
Tom Malka, SOC director at Security Joes, explains, "We will always check what approaches the app requires - and we will not install applications whose requirements do not meet the logic. For example, a plant identification app with access to phone calls."
The full list
1. Easy PDF Scanner
2. Now QRCode Scan
3. Super-Click VPN
4. Volume Booster Louder Sound Equalizer
5. Battery Charging Animation Bubble Effects
6. Smart TV Remote
7. Volume Boosting Hearing Aid
8. Flashlight Flash Alert on Call
9. Halloween Coloring
10. Classic Emoji Keyboard
11. Super Hero Effect
12. Dazzling Keyboard
13. EmojiOne Keyboard
14. Battery Charging Animation Wallpaper
15. Blender Photo Editor- Easy Photo Background Editor
technology
Privacy and security
Tags
Android
Google
