Billions of Android users warned to delete 19 apps right now – ‘criminals’ may be hiding on your phone
ANDROID users have been warned about 19 malicious apps that can steal their sensitive data.
It’s no surprise that hackers will try almost any method to target victims.
And one of the biggest avenues for hackers is Android software, thanks to its open-source program.
Unlike iOS, “it is easy for cybercriminals to infiltrate an Android device using malicious apps,” antimalware company Malwarefox said in a blog.
Malicious apps include malware programs like trojans, adware, spyware, keyloggers, and others
Malware is a malicious file or code that can infect your phone or computer.
It can attack your device through malicious apps, compromised emails, or non-secure WiFi connections.
Most commonly, the goal is to steal a user’s banking information, identity, or passwords.
How does this work?
Cybercriminals download apps from Google Play, and then add malicious code to them.
They then submit the malware-laden versions to Google Play with a new name and unsuspecting users download them.
The three most common malware found in the apps includes the Harly trojan, Joker spyware, and Autolycos malware.
In order to help people combat these apps, MalwareFox has revealed the top 19 apps that are currently attacking Android software.
Apps to delete now
Below we have outlined the top 19 apps currently infected with malware.
Harly trojan apps you should delete right now include:
- Fare Gamehub and Box
- Hope Camera-Picture Record
- Same Launcher and Live Wallpaper
- Amazing Wallpaper
- Cool Emoji Editor and Sticker
Joker spyware apps include:
- Simple Note Scanner – com.wuwan.pdfscan
- Universal PDF Scanner – com.unpdf.scan.read.docscanuniver
- Private Messenger – com.recollect.linkus
- Premium SMS – com.premium.put.trustsms
- Blood Pressure Checker – com.bloodpressurechecker.tangjiang
- Cool Keyboard – com.colate.gthemekeyboard
- Paint Art
- Color Message
And Autolycos malware includes:
- Vlog Star Video Editor
- Creative 3D Launcher
- Wow Beauty Camera
- Gif Emoji Keyboard
- Instant Heart Rate Anytime
- Delicate Messenger
How to protect yourself
For starters, it’s important to always keep your device updated.
You should also avoid installing apps from unofficial Android stores.
Furthermore, you should never download anything from strange pop-up windows.
To protect yourself further, it helps to install antivirus and antimalware software.