A report by Russian security firm Doctor Web has suggested that several of the Google Play Store’s apps were spread malware known as “The Joker.” It also suggested that Play Store is still home to many malicious apps full of adware, spyware etc. These apps can vary their targets from a user’s personal data to even bank details!
The apps that were found infected are:
Yobit trading, Encontre Mais (both happened to be banking trojans), Motorcycle Road 2D, Insight Photo Editor, Cell Camera, Pledge Clean, Mentor Security, Compose Camera, Display Wallpaper, Green Camera, etc. As one an make out, the apps are quite deceiving as they range from utilities to even trading!
The apps combined had quite a lot of installs as the app seemed legit to an unsuspecting user. The apps dropped the infamous malware “The Joker” in the background and even spyware in some rare cases.
Some of these apps went forward to bombard users with unwanted ads. In turn, generating income for criminals.
At the time of publishing this article, Google has removed all the aforementioned apps from the Play store. But the users should make sure that they don’t have these apps installed on their devices as it poses a great threat to the security of the devices.
Below mentioned are some ways to protect yourself from these types of malicious attacks:
- Turn On Screen Lock:
Every android device nowadays has a screen lock. It sure does provide an extra layer of protection. There are several types of screen lock which ranges from facial recognition to pattern and many more.
2. Install and use AppLock
AppLock adds the flair of privacy which prevents unwanted users to access apps that are locked and in turn, saves your precious data. AppLock from the Google Play Store is highly recommended.
3. Don’t save important passwords!
Refrain from saving important passwords on any android browser, even on Google Chrome as they are extremely vulnerable to being stolen! Just don’t save passwords anywhere as they are extremely vulnerable.
4. Use credible antiviruses
Avoid installing third-party antivirus which is eerily suspicious. Consider installing antivirus apps like Avast, Kaspersky, and much more! The companies have a long history of trust and are sure to protect your device.
5. Keep a check on App Preferences
Mostly, the infected app would slip in conspicuous permissions like contact, location etc. One should read app permissions before granting them. Getting an insight into the credibility of the app by reading comments is highly suggested.
6. Keep your network encrypted
Web Browsers are vulnerable to attacks and are exposed to exploitation. Most common techniques hackers are by redirecting an unsuspecting user to a malicious server. You should make sure of using VPNs and other encryption apps to ensure security.
