Researchers found a new set of malware apps in Google Play

A new set of malicious Android apps have managed to enter the Google Play store. These apps trick over two million people who installed these apps on their devices. Researchers at Dr. Web antivirus found a few apps that pretend to be useful utilities but come with malware and adware.

One of the malicious apps spotted by TubeBox had over one million downloads on the Play Store. Now Google has pulled the app from the Play Store. This app promises to reward users for watching videos and ads but never delivers the promise. When users try to redeem rewards, it will only show random error messages.

Other molar apps are Bluetooth device auto connect, Bluetooth & Wi-Fi & USB driver, Volume, Music Equalizer, and Fast Cleaner & Cooling Master. These apps have also been deleted from the Play Store. These apps are basically Adware to generate fraudulent ad impressions on infected Android devices.

Fast Cleaner & Cooling Master can also allow its owner to use your phone as a proxy server.

Dr. Web also found some loan scam apps with considerable downloads. These apps promise guaranteed investment profits but take users to phishing sites and collect their personal information. These fake apps also use photos of famous personas and companies to attract users.

Android is an open ecosystem where users can sideload apps by downloading APK or use any other app store. So, devices are not safe. Threat actors also manage to bypass Google’s security check and malicious apps enter the Play Store. This is the reason I recommend all Android users start using a good Android Antivirus app to keep their devices safe.

Also see: Random Password Generator