Google play app downloads malware

This is a troubling revelation, given that Google Play stands right alongside the Apple App store as one of the biggest destinations for downloading free and paid apps. Many internet users assume they can trust an app with millions of downloads on Google Play, but that's just not always the case. Here's how that app slipped through, and what it means for the cyber-safety of app downloaders everywhere. So how did CamScanner pull its scam? By starting out its life as a completely safe, legal, and useful app, which monetized through typical practices including ads and in-app purchases.

Millions downloaded it. As the name suggests, the module is a Trojan Dropper. Reviewers had already begun to mention their doubts in reviews for the app, which may have drawn the attention of Kaspersky. Once reported, the app was immediately removed from Google Play, ensuring no one else will be tricked. At least, not by that particular app. The latest version of CamScanner has had the malicious code removed, according to Kaspersky.

Google Play is home to millions of apps, many of which are updated regularly, and there's no way Google can ensure that every single one is legit. Still, it's rare to see malware with a hundred million downloads. Ironically, the biggest scam that Android users fell for in early were fake virus alerts that were themselves malware.

One firm detected over half a million of these scams in the first quarter of last year, along with more than a hundred thousand cases each of scams hidden in adult dating sites or posing as fake sweepstakes winner notifications. Even worse, there's a chance that an Android device is shipped with malware already installed. You can still download your Android apps from Google Play.

Such malware is highly dangerous as it can successfully withdraw money from the user's account. Bad actors can manipulate it to redirect all the money and the user would not even know as the messages will be deleted. Given below is a list of applications that are reported to contain the dangerous Joker malware. Users are advised to check their smartphone and remove if they have downloaded an application from the ones given below.

While Google might remove these applications in due course, it is safe to take all the precautions. Additionally, users are advised not to download applications from untrusted sources and developers before downloading and installing an application on their device. The Debate. Breaking News. Eftpos added security features go-live as digital upgrades continue.

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